Today we are pleased to feature our interview with Mark Knott of Woodstock Dentistry.
*If you're just finding our "Staying at Home in Woodstock" series, welcome! During the COVID-19 crisis, we are connecting with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profits to help encourage and support one another through this difficult time. Please contact us directly if you would like to be featured!*
Who are you and where do you live?
Mark Knott, DDS. I live in West Woodstock with my wife Rachel Hochman, and my practice is at The Mill in the East End of Woodstock.
What do you do? For how long have you been doing it?
I’ve been a dentist in Woodstock for 13 years this May. We moved from the Ottaquechee Health Center to The Mill in April of 2015. April 17, 2020 is our fifth anniversary at The Mill building. It’s a wonderful, light-filled location overlooking the Billings Farm and its hay fields.
How has your life and livelihood changed in the time of Covid-19
My livelihood has changed significantly. I temporarily closed my practice on March 17, 2020, following the executive order of Governor Phil Scott. Because it was unclear when we would be allowed to reopen, at that time, I laid off my seven employees, who I consider both family, coworkers, and friends. I can only see emergency patients at this time for severe bleeding or pain, but I’m not really even supposed to see them, but instead practice “tele-dentistry,” however, I’m not really sure what that is! It’s difficult to have no income when there is still office overhead and personal bills. This is the first time I’ve sought assistance from state and federal agencies. I’ve been working since I was 10 when I started mowing lawns. I miss my patients, and co-workers.
On a positive note, I’m taking long walks with my wife and dogs, getting lots of projects done around our home, sheep farm and vegetable garden, and riding my bike and horse. I’m spending lots of time outside, and cooking a lot more. I am very grateful to live where we do, in this beautiful state of Vermont.
What is the most important thing that people can do to help support you and/or your business?
1. Return to us for your dental care - you can check for updates on our website: https://www.woodstockdentistry.com/
2. Trust that your safety, in terms of infection control, is paramount to our values. We are already taking steps to ensure additional safety measures for our return.
3. Support other local businesses!
What changes do you hope to see in a post-quarantine world?
After this quarantine, I’m hoping to see stronger community connections.
We couldn't agree more, Dr. Knott! In the meantime, we will look forward to visiting you and your team at The Mill.
All photos courtesy of Dr. Knott's website: www.woodstockdentistry.com
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