04/27/2020
Governor DeWine Opens Healthcare System on May 1
Today, Governor Mike DeWine announced that physicians can resume doing most elective procedures and surgeries starting May 1.
The governor’s office sent a press release Monday evening with details of his Responsible RestartOhio plan. The following section related specifically to his healthcare plan.
Beginning May 1, 2020, all medically necessary procedures that do not require an overnight stay in a healthcare facility or do not require inpatient hospital admission and minimizes use of personal protective equipment may move forward. This includes regular doctor visits, well-care checks, well-baby visits, out-patient surgeries, imaging procedures, and diagnostic tests. Dental services and veterinary services may also proceed if a safe environment can be established.
Healthcare providers and facilities that plan to resume providing these services must adhere to infection control practices, have sufficient PPE, and talk with patients about the risk of contracting COVID-19.
Surgeries and procedures that, if not performed, would cause a threat to a patient's life, a threat of the spread of cancer or the permanent dysfunction of a limb or organ, the presence of severe symptoms causing an inability to perform activities of daily living, and/or the risk of rapidly worsening symptoms have always been permitted even if an overnight stay is necessary.
In addition, we believe a more detailed fact sheet and official order will be coming this week and we will notify you accordingly as documents are released.
This is wonderful news for physician practices across the state as we are all eager to get back to work treating patients and doing what we do best—working together for a healthier Ohio.
New Guidance for Re-Opening
other Areas of Business
Monday's announcement also included guidance for re-opening other areas of business—including manufacturing, consumer retail and general office environments. The Governor’s Office has posted information about Responsible Restart Ohio re-opening procedures.
Thank you for your dedication to Ohio's health care community.
If you have questions about this information
or OSMA’s services to physicians:
Call 800-766-6762 or email OSMA.