4/24/2020- Dr. Stack outlines reopening of healthcare

In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 3,481 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 161 were newly confirmed. It is believed that 1,335 people have recovered from the virus, however six new deaths were reported on Thursday, bringing the state’s total to 191. Doctor Steven Stack outlined in some greater detail exactly which healthcare practitioners will be able to resume care this coming Monday. These facilities include hospital outpatient setting, health care clinics and medical offices, physical therapy settings, chiropractic offices and optometrists, and dental offices. It was noted that health care providers should still work to provide telehealth as much as possible. Certain practitioners must still take special care as they reopen. Those in high-touch clinical settings such as physical therapy or chiropractic must wear non-latex gloves in addition to enhanced hand hygiene practices, and sanitize objects and contact surfaces between patients. In the case of those in high-aerosol risk settings such as dentistry and oral surgery, the state is seeking additional input in order to assure the safety of both patients and staff. All facilities are asked to eliminate traditional waiting rooms, ensure social distancing, eliminate visitation except in end-of-life situations, screen all workers, patients, and others for temperature and symptoms upon arrival, and wear all required PPE while in the office.