BUFFALO, N.Y. — All Erie County hospitals and surgery centers can resume elective surgeries.
Lt. Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement on Twitter Wednesday.
Kaleida, ECMC and Catholic Health had been granted waivers for some facilities to perform elective surgeries, prior to reopening.
The health agencies had to furlough some staff due to loss of revenue from having to cancel elective surgeries due COVID-19 pandemic.
Kaleida Health President and CEO Jody Lomeo released the following statement:
“We are thrilled for the residents in Erie County and for the patients in our community. Hearing the Governor’s announcement that the County is now eligible to resume elective surgeries and ambulatory care is another step forward in re-opening of Western New York.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has certainly stressed the healthcare delivery system here in our community and across the State. However, more notably, the coronavirus has also put undue stress on thousands of patients who had to put their health on hold as we battled this crisis together. We are most happy for these patients, who can now receive the tremendous care that our local healthcare delivery system is known for. It’s a win for them.
“It is also clear that, as a result of the courage, hard work and dedication of the healthcare heroes across Kaleida Health and this community, coupled with the collective efforts of all when it comes to social distancing, stay-at-home orders and the various safety measures, we continue to see a downward trend of COVID-19 positive patients. That’s good news for everyone in Western New York.”