Maryland hospitals have been directed to reduce the number of nonurgent medical surgeries requiring overnight stays once the state hits 1,200 COVID-19 hospitalizations, Gov. Larry Hogan said Dec. 15.
1,167 patients have been hospitalized as of Dec. 15, according to state data.
At 1,500 COVID-19 hospitalizations, hospitals are to implement their pandemic plans, which were to be updated by Dec. 15. The new thresholds are part of a series of additional measures announced by state officials to address a potential surge in COVID-19 cases.
The Maryland Department of Health has also established a Surge Operation Center to manage the state's daily operations surrounding a sustained COVID-19 surge at hospitals. Health officials are also working closely with appropriate agencies to enhance staffing at hospitals.