Elective surgeries were stopped at Manatee Memorial Hospital. They’re about to start again
Manatee Memorial Hospital, which which paused performing elective surgeries on July 20 due to COVID-19 concerns, announced Thursday that the procedures will resume on Monday.
“We realize how important elective surgeries and procedures can be for the health and comfort of patients, and are pleased to be able to accommodate them again,” Kevin DiLallo, hospital CEO, said in a statement. “Due to the decrease in COVID-19 cases at this time, we have the staff, space and supplies necessary to bring back many elective surgeries and procedures.
In mid-July, Manatee Memorial, Blake Medical Center and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center — all three general hospitals serving the Bradenton area — hit capacity, as a result of the surge in COVID-19 cases.
At that time, coronavirus-positive patients represented almost one-fifth of the people being treated at area hospitals.
Manatee Memorial’s leadership team was working with physician offices this week to accommodate the re-scheduling of elective surgeries and procedures that are on-hold, as well as scheduling new cases. Patients awaiting a procedure are encouraged to contact their surgeon or physician for more information, including scheduling details.
“Rigorous cleaning and disinfection protocols, in addition to universal masking and social distancing measures, are in place to ensure the health and safety of our patients and staff,” DiLallo said.
The rise and fall in positive COVID-19 test results has affected hospital operations since March, when elective surgeries were first put on hold by order of Gov. Ron DeSantis. At the beginning of May, Manatee Memorial, 206 2nd St. E., began rescheduling surgeries and procedures.
Since the pandemic arrived, more than 9,000 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Manatee County.
For additional information, visit https://www.manateememorial.com/ and click on the Committed to Safety banner.
