Health Law Alert. On April 27, 2020 the Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) issued revised Guidance permitting ambulatory surgery facilities (ASFs) to resume performing elective surgeries and procedures if the ASF makes an affirmative decision that it is able to do so without jeopardizing the safety of patients and staff or the ASF’s ability to respond to the COVID-19 emergency.

In determining whether an ASF is able to support elective admissions, surgeries and procedures, the ASF must review the Joint Statement issued by the American College of Surgeons, American Society of Anesthesiologists, Association of perioperative Registered Nurses, and American Hospital Association, and consider the operational guidance described therein to the extent applicable to ASFs. ASFs that provide pediatric treatment and care should additionally review the Guidance from the Children’s Hospital Association.

For more information on how the revised Guidance impacts your practice or ASF, please do not hesitate to contact us.