Multiple hospitals throughout Ohio have postponed elective operations due to the rise of coronavirus cases across the state.
According to the healthcare providers, the decision to postpone some operations will free certain resources in order to combat positive cases.
For example, OhioHealth, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, and the Cleveland Clinic have all made similar decisions in recent weeks.
“There is a significant increase in patients needing hospitalization in central Ohio. The number of COVID-19 inpatients has reached a peak not seen since January 2021 and it’s straining the region’s hospital systems. We are also seeing high numbers of non-COVID patients who are sicker than typical,” the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center said in a statement.
“This measure will help free the necessary resources for inpatients in need of immediate and life-saving care whether from COVID-19 or other serious illnesses. Surgical procedures deemed necessary to avoid risk to life, permanent dysfunction, progression of cancer or risk of rapidly worsening pain will still occur. Elective cases that do not meet these general criteria will be subject to postponement.”
In the state, cases have jumped to an average positive rate of 16.6 percent, according to the Mayo Clinic.
“Our Ohio hospitals continue to see high volumes of patients hospitalized with COVID-19. In order to make additional beds available, we are extending the postponement of non-urgent surgeries requiring a hospital bed at our Ohio Hospitals through Jan. 14, 2022,” explained the Cleveland Clinic.
Governor Mike DeWine has also deployed more than 1,000 members of the Ohio National Guard to assist overwhelmed hospital staff. Of those, 150 individuals are medical professionals and will aid operations at hospitals and testing locations. The other 900 members will “help with patient transport, housekeeping, and food services.”
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Cooper Moran is a reporter for The Star News Network. Follow Cooper on Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
