Hospitals' Physician Leaders Urge Missourians To Help Protect Health Care Workers And Hospital Resources

STATEMENT

“As physician leaders of hospitals and health systems throughout the state of Missouri, we are united in fighting the spread of COVID-19. Every region of the state is experiencing increases in positive cases, and hospitalizations are surging. This is putting incredible stress on doctors, nurses, therapists, custodians, and food services and support staff who will continue to suffer additional stress and risk their own infection, illness and mortality.

Missouri’s hospitals and health care facilities will continue requiring staff, patients and visitors to follow public safety protocols, including mask-wearing, screenings upon entry to our facilities, and limitation of visitors. We urge everyone to do their part: wear a mask, stay at least six feet apart, avoid gathering in large crowds and wash your hands frequently to keep your friends and neighbors — and our health care workers — safe.

It is imperative that every Missouri resident join us in taking the necessary steps to prevent the spread of this deadly disease. And, we urge Gov. Mike Parson to continue to promote the message that Missourians’ help and compliance is necessary to help prevent catastrophic increases in hospital admissions.

Missouri hospitals draw on data and guidance from public health experts to guide their decision-making. Taking these measures will help keep hospitals from being overwhelmed and remain safe places for patients to receive both routine and emergency care.

Please support our dedicated and courageous health care staff as they continue the fight against COVID-19. Together, we can keep this dangerous virus under control.”

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