INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Hospital Association president Brian Tabor said Wednesday that hospitals across the state are participating in regional calls while they prepare to work together as more patients seek care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tabor said all hospitals in the state, including those that are part of regional health systems, rural hospitals, behavioral health and specialty hospitals are participating in the calls to ensure that resources are allocated appropriately.
He also asked Hoosiers to follow public health guidance and stay home to minimize the spread of the coronavirus and said people with symptoms should contact their medical provider before seeking care in an emergency room.
The Indiana State Department of Health reported Wednesday that 14 people have died from the coronavirus, while 477 people have tested positive across the state.
Read Tabor's full statement below:
Hospitals across Indiana are committed to working together to care for patients on a daily basis, and certainly during this public health emergency. Planning with state and federal stakeholders for emergencies like natural disasters, bioterrorism, and infectious disease outbreaks is something that our members do regularly. In collaboration with State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box and FSSA Secretary Jennifer Sullivan, the Indiana Hospital Association is facilitating regional calls around the state to specifically accelerate COVID-19 preparation efforts. All hospitals, including those that are part of regional health systems, rural hospitals, and even our behavioral health and specialty hospital members, are participating to ensure that resources are allocated appropriately to ensure the best possible patient care. We sincerely appreciate the Holcomb Administration’s leadership during this crisis.
Doctors, nurses, and other caregivers are committed to taking care of Hoosiers but are also asking for your help. Hoosiers are strongly encouraged to follow public health guidance and stay at home to minimize the spread. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, we urge you to contact your medical provider before accessing care in an emergency room or other setting.
The Indiana State Department of Health’s dedicated webpage or CDC guidance provide updated, accurate information.
