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Smiles Inclusive (ASX:SIL) reopens dental practices as restrictions ease

Health Care
ASX:SIL
04 May 2020 14:45 (AEST)
Smiles Inclusive (ASX:SIL) - CEO, Michelle Aquilin

Sourced: Venture Magazine

Smiles Inclusive (SIL) has intimated its COVID-19 recovery plan after the state government loosened quarantine restrictions last week.

Consequently, the company will recommence operations at 20 of its dental practice, which began ramping up on April 27.

The Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, which has been managing quarantine protocols since the outbreak began, eased off some level three restrictions in WA last Monday. This has raised the limit on public gathering to 10 people and allowed some business to reopen.

While some of Smiles Inclusive’s employees will return to work as the practices reopen, an undisclosed portion of the staff will remain temporarily stood down. 

The company is securing the returning staff’s payroll through the Federal Government’s JobKeeper program. 

Alongside this news, Smiles Inclusive reported a positive cashflow at 31 March 2020 and is continuing to negotiate to recapitalisation and restructuring initiatives.

Michelle Aquilina, CEO of Smiles Inclusive, does not think anyone could have foreseen the pandemic and its ongoing effects.

“This truly extraordinary event resulted in the forced closures of all our dental practices across Australia.

“While the easing of restrictions is a positive step forward, Totally Smiles will continue to take precautionary measures to ensure the health and safety of our people and the community continues. Everyone including dentists and staff have been working through the COVID-19 crisis as best they can,” she said.

Michelle went on thank the company’s staff for their commitment to patient care during the pandemic. 

Smiles Inclusive shares remain suspended at 3.5 cents each as the ASX waits on its half-year financial statements.

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