You know this. The events of the past week were unimaginable just a short time ago. The rapid spike in cases of COVID-19 around the country and here in Maryland is challenging us all like never before.
Your efforts to carry us through this crisis are appreciated and recognized by leaders and the public statewide. We’ve been glad to see the public outpouring of support for your workers, the desire to pitch in with donations, and messages of thanks.
Earlier this morning Del. Shane Pendergrass, who chairs the Health and Government Operations Committee, wrote to me, saying, “I’m thinking of your members, all our hospitals, and I’m grateful for what your organizations are facing and doing. Please pass that along.”
MHA—and the state as a whole—are united behind you as you protect and save lives.
We’re hearing troubling stories of health care workers in other states running out of equipment to help patients and protect themselves. Governors in California, New York and elsewhere took unprecedented steps to order all people not performing life-sustaining functions to stay home.
We support Gov. Hogan’s measures closing businesses and limiting gatherings to promote social distancing and prevent the spread. We are advising his team so that any future tightening of restrictions does not impede your vital work.
You need help on surge capacity—beds, equipment, supplies and people. MHA is at the table with MDH and Maryland Emergency Management to plan and find resources.
Maryland’s federal delegation has asked us to tell them how to advocate for your needs in their discussions about COVID-19-related bills. We’re in touch with them steadily.
Thank you for what you and your teams are doing right now to keep Marylanders safe and to prepare for what’s to come.
Bob Atlas
President & CEO