COLUMBUS, Ohio — Last week, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine asked that doctors, including dentists and veterinarians, postpone any elective procedures due to concerns regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19).
That request has now become an order.
On Tuesday, DeWine announced that he has issued an order to postpone any elective surgeries. The order comes serves as a preemptive measure to ensure that Ohio has as many resources available as coronavirus cases increase.
As of Tuesday, Ohio has found 67 positive cases of the coronavirus. The age range of those cases spans from 14-86 years with a median age of 48-years-old. There have been 17 hospitalizations in Ohio as a result of the coronavirus, with the majority in Northeast Ohio.
One local hospital has already announced it will fully comply with the governor's order, as University Hospitals will postpone all nonessential procedures "that utilize personal protective equipment" starting Thursday. Patients with such operations scheduled will receive a phone call.
"In supporting the Governor’s declaration, UH will strive to preserve the key elements of our physician-patient relationships and make the best decisions on a case-by-case basis," UH said in a statement. "This will ensure the most compassionate and safest approach to protecting the health and wellbeing of all of our patients."
Dating back to the discovery of the first positive coronavirus case in Ohio last week, DeWine has issued a number of orders in an effort to decrease the rate in which the virus spreads. Those orders include restrictions on mass gatherings of more than 50 people, the closure of all bars and restaurants (delivery and takeout still available), the closure of K-12 schools for at least three weeks and the closure of gyms, health centers and movie theaters. On Monday, Ohio Department of Health director Dr. Amy Acton issued an order delaying in-person voting in the Ohio primary, which had been scheduled for Tuesday.