Oregon Clinicians Support Statewide Two-week Freeze

Physicians and physician assistants urge common sense, adherence to science

November 13, 2020—The Oregon Medical Association and its partners support the Governor’s announcement today of new restrictions for Oregonians to help curb the spread of coronavirus transmission. The new statewide, two-week freeze is outlined in today’s press briefing and accompanying press release.  

“The shocking exponential rise in new COVID-19 cases makes it imperative that all of us heed the guidance of the Oregon Health Authority by staying at home whenever we possibly can and avoiding gathering in groups larger than six,” said Kevin Ewanchyna, MD, the President of the Oregon Medical Association.

If Oregonians absolutely must leave their homes, they should wear a mask, stay six feet apart from others, and wash their hands frequently.

Hospital and medical facility capacity is a serious concern. The number of available ICU beds is quickly moving to a critical stage, but an expected surge in patients will also tax our healthcare workforce itself. When Oregonians get sick, we want to treat them. But we cannot do that if we cannot keep up with the number of new infections.

In the spring of 2020, Oregonians banded together, took common-sense restrictions seriously, and altered their behavior in necessary ways to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

"We agree that further steps are needed at this time," said David J. Abdun-Nur, MD, President of the Oregon Academy of Family Physicians. He added, "If we all cut back on our activity, we’ll get back on track."

Chris Strear, MD, FACEP, President of the Oregon Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, urges Oregonians to spend their holidays at home, adding, "Emergency physicians and our colleagues are here for you 24/7/365, but current COVID-19 infection trends mean an even greater strain on hospitals and health care resources. We need everyone to do their part to keep our state safe.”

We are very aware of the economic difficulties this creates for Oregon’s businesses and that physical distancing is a challenge. That said, Oregon’s providers need your support right now and the best way Oregonians can help is to follow the prevention measures.