Texas Governor Issued Order To Preempt Capacity Demands On Hospitals And Equipment

In a preemptive measure in response to the novel coronavirus and COVID-19, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued an executive order late yesterday that preserves hospital capacity and equipment.

“We have seen how this virus has progressed in other states and nations, and it is vital that Texas stays ahead of the curve as the situation develops here,” Governor Abbott said in a press release, indicating that patient care capacity takes precedence.

The order, issued at 4:30 pm, March 22, instructs all licensed health care professional and all licensed health care facilities to postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately medically necessary to to correct a serious medical condition, or to preserve a patient’s life.

Governor Abbott also suspended specific state regulations to allow for increased occupancy in hospital rooms, increasing the ability to care for projected COVID-19 patients.

Additionally, the Governor announced the creation of a temporary Supply Chain Strike Force, naming Dell Senior Vice President Keith Miears as director. The task force will ensure needed healthcare supplies and resources, including protective equipment, through collaborations with public and private sectors.

According to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, Texas has 698 confirmed cases of coronavirus compared to New York’s 20,875, New Jersey’s 2,844 and California’s 1,839.

The executive order remains in effect and in full force until 11:59 p.m. on April 21, 2020, unless further action is taken.