Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey has declared a state of emergency in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The state has reported nine confirmed cases of coronavirus, but Ducey said, “We are anticipating additional positive cases, and we’re not taking any chances.”
Ducey, speaking at a news conference today, said the declaration will free up emergency funds and make it possible for health care workers to cut through licensing red tape.
He also issued an executive order that requires nursing homes to check workers and visitors for symptoms of coronavirus, as well as require insurance companies to cover the full cost of coronavirus testing for their policyholders.
“We have seen community spread in Arizona and we do anticipate more cases.” – Dr. Cara Christ
AZ currently has 9 cases, but has only tested 100 people.
Gov. Ducey has declared a public health emergency in Arizona. pic.twitter.com/YSzZTKdNq9— Zach Crenshaw (@ZachCrenshaw) March 11, 2020
The declaration provides several allowances to help address the spread of the virus:
- Establishes the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) as the entity responsible for coordinating all matters pertaining to the public health emergency response of the State.
- Allows ADHS to waive licensing requirements to provide healthcare officials with assistance in delivering services during times of heightened demand.
- It also allows the state to access $500,000 in emergency funds to aid in measures and resources to protect public health.
- Provides the state with emergency procurement authority to procure goods and services as needed to protect public health.