On April 23, the AGD submitted a response to a Request For Information from Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks(IA-01) about reforming the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). AGD advocated for an adequate supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the strategic national stockpile at all times. Furthermore, AGD stated that we are not aware of the CDC conducting a single cluster randomized trial to determine appropriate social distancing protocols, community masking effectiveness, off-label use of therapeutics for treatment of SARS-CoV-2, or other important issues during the three-year pandemic. Initially, testing was problematic and delayed our national response. AGD also advocated for coordination between multiple federal agencies so that federal guidance does not conflict from one agency to another. Similarly, the AGD filed a comment on pandemic preparedness with the Senate Health Education, Labor & Pensions (HELP).

Impact on General Dentistry: AGD will continue to weigh in with federal authorities on the COVID-19 pandemic response to ensure better outcomes, should there be another pandemic.