COVID-19 Update and Information

Dear OOSS members and colleagues,

These are unprecedented times and the safety of ASC patients, surgeons, staff and communities are of highest importance to OOSS, our members and association partners.  The COVID-19 pandemic continues to require drastic containment and mitigation strategies to flatten the curve of contagion.  OOSS has been collaborating with ASCA, AAO and ASCRS, and monitoring CDC guidance.  The clinical experts agree on OR safety guidelines and the prioritization of patients’ surgery but differ somewhat on local response to performing medically-necessary elective surgeries.  We urge you to review information for ophthalmologists and ASC leaders to help you navigate the national landscape and adapt to the unique local situation in your area.

Please use the following links to source information:
American Academy of Ophthalmology
Ambulatory Surgery Centers Association
American Medical Association
American College of Surgeons
American Hospital Association
Arnold & Porter practical and legal issues for employers
Arnold & Porter supply chain management
McDermott Will & Emery Daily Update

ASCs stand ready to provide surgical care for those patients in need of emergent elective surgery in a safe ambulatory surgery center setting.  We should continue to be responsive and make accommodations to support our colleagues in healthcare, and to be a part of the solution in combating and containing the COVID-19 pandemic.

We will continue to collaborate with ophthalmic and association partners and will share information with OOSS members as it is available.

We are grateful for all you do with your patients, staff, and communities.

Respectfully,

OOSS Executive Board

Maria C. Scott MD, President
Cathleen McCabe MD, Vice President
David George MD, Secretary
Jeffrey Whitman MD, Past President
Y. Ralph Chu MD, Chair, Government Relations
Frank Cotter MD, Chair, Member Relations

Disclaimer:  The content of this email by OOSS is not intended to be a substitute for information shared by the CDC and WHO organizations and should not be interpreted as policy directives.