Phoenix, AZ- Arizona hospital leaders issued the following statement regarding the COVID-19 response and medically necessary surgeries:
“As representatives of the largest health systems representing 80% of care provided in Arizona, we recognize the challenges our State and nation are facing as we continue to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. Our teams of medical professionals continue to provide world-class care as we monitor the evolving circumstances at our facilities on a daily basis.
“COVID-19 is impacting each region of the State and each health care system differently, therefore we appreciate maximum operational flexibility for hospitals as we balance the demand for medically necessary surgeries and COVID-19 care. This flexibility allows us to continue to provide high quality care for every patient.
“We continue to monitor the performance of medically necessary surgeries based on patient-specific circumstances and in consultation with our clinical staff. Arizona’s hospitals are operated by trained professionals who are well-equipped to quickly adjust to the needs of patients.
“We appreciate the ongoing opportunity to work with Governor Ducey and the Department of Health Services as well as the partnership of our hospital systems and facilities across the State, as we coordinate the management of patient volumes to combat this pandemic.
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind Arizonans that we are at a critical time where we can turn the trajectory of this virus by taking proper precautions. We encourage everyone to follow the CDC guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- If you are ill, stay home except to receive medical care
- Wear a mask when you’re in public near others
- Stay six feet away from others
- Wash your hands frequently
- Wipe down surfaces that may be infected
- Avoid gatherings of 10 or more people. ”