Willingness and Ability of Oral Health Care Workers to Work During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, this study assesses oral health care workers’ ability and willingness to work during the COVID-19 pandemic and what factors affected that ability and willingness. Results indicate that of the study participants, 53% of dentists, 33% of dental hygienists, 29% of dental assistants, and 48% of nonclinical staff members would be able to work a normal shift during the pandemic, and even fewer would be willing to work a normal shift. Barriers included caring for family, a second job, and personal obligations.