On May 7, 2020, the Mississippi State Department of Health ("MSDH") issued a State Health Officer's Order relaxing its April 24, 2020 Order regarding the provision of outpatient medical services and elective surgeries and procedures. Specifically, the Order provides that, effective May 11, 2020, "Tier 1, 2, and 3" outpatient medical services may be conducted "based on need according to physician judgement." The Order relaxes the MSDH's April 24, 2020 Order, which permitted only Tier 2 and 3 outpatient medical services. The MSDH continues to encourage telehealth visits when possible and as appropriate. When telehealth is not possible, providers must continue to screen all patients for COVID-19 and follow social distancing guidelines as previously provided.
Likewise, the Order provides that Tier 1, 2, and 3 elective procedures and surgeries may resume effective May 11, 2020, as determined by the patient's treating physician in his or her clinical judgment and in accordance with MSDH guidance. The Order continues to require that providers performing elective surgeries and procedures take certain measures to: (1) screen all patients for COVID-19; (2) assess and preserve PPE, supplies, equipment and medicine; (3) ensure social distancing; and (4) prevent COVID-19 transmission.
Click here to read the full text of the May 7, 2020 MSDH Order.
Originally published May 13, 2020.
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