As part of the process of reopening its state economy, officials in Alaska announced that elective surgery limits may be lifted soon. While the move is part of a larger plan to reopen some sections of the economy, Gov. Mike Dunleavy emphasized that extreme precautions still must be taken around the state due to the rapid spread of the coronavirus.
The original restrictions were announced by state officials last week and required non-urgent procedures to be postponed for three months or canceled entirely. According to the mandate, the delays were intended to preserve hospital capacity, supply availability, and the safety of medical staff and patients. Abortions were included in the restriction, with the provision that they could be postponed for “a few weeks” unless the health of the mother was at risk. Critics argued that this inclusion was a political move.
Alaska had reported 285 cases of the coronavirus as of Tuesday, with 98 recoveries. Dunleavy stated that while the state’s economy can be reopened bit by bit, it is imperative that Alaskans continue practicing good hygiene and social distancing.
Source: Bohrer, Becky. 2020, April 14. Alaska plans to lift restrictions on elective surgeries. Associated Press.