The physicians, nurses and other health care workers at our hospitals in Ohio are on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic and I’m grateful for their exceptional work.

It was important to hear directly from our health care leaders in Ohio to understand their needs during these uncertain times. We must all do our part to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus to ensure that we do not overwhelm our health care systems.

Flattening the curve is important so that our hospitals have all the resources and personal protective equipment necessary to keep our hard-working Ohio health care providers healthy so they are able to assist those who need care.

While there are potential shortages and challenges ahead, I’m glad that Gov. Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health Director Amy Acton are taking decisive steps like limiting gatherings to promote social distancing and have issued orders to limit Ohio’s hospitals from conducting elective and non-emergency surgeries, in order to preserve access to masks and other personal protective equipment.

My office has been working with some of Ohio’s hospitals already to connect them to needed resources and equipment, and we’ll continue to help and offer guidance as this crisis continues.

(…) Our goal is to ensure that hospitals across Ohio have the resources they need during this public health emergency so Ohioans get the care, testing, and treatment they need.

(…)

Rob Portman is a Republican and the junior U.S. senator representing Ohio. His office can be reached at 614-469-6774.