The Center for Health Affairs Issues Joint Statement to Address Seriousness of COVID-19

Dear Northeast Ohio,

As the number of COVID-19 cases continue to rise in Northeast Ohio we feel it is important to reach out together to stress the seriousness of this public health crisis. While our teams stand ready to care for you in the event you contract COVID-19, we are asking for your help. 

As healthcare institutions we continue to work on testing, developing treatment options, and studying potential vaccines, but these efforts combined will not stop the spread of COVID-19. We depend on you to do what is needed to protect yourself and those you love.   

Coronavirus is a risk to all of us. There are basic, life-saving steps we all can take to prevent illness and protect ourselves, our families and our community. These steps include:

• Protective Masking – Mask up, covering your nose, mouth and chin with a mask when you are around others.
• Physical Distancing – Avoiding large crowds and maintaining 6 feet between yourself and people who do not live in your household. 

• Frequent Handwashing – Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that meets CDC guidelines. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Monitor Your Health & Exposures – Pay attention to your symptoms. If you have any of the below symptoms or you think you’ve been exposed, stay home and call your doctor for guidance on testing and care.
  • Fever or feeling feverish (chills, sweating)
  • Fatigue (feeling tired all the time)
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headache
  • New loss of smell or taste
  • Sore throat
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

We care about the health and safety of our Northeast Ohio community. Please continue to protect yourself and others during this global pandemic. We are Northeast Ohio and we are stronger together!

About The Center for Health Affairs

With a rich history as the nation’s first regional hospital association and a mission to impact medical, social and economic health and well-being, The Center for Health Affairs convenes 37 hospital and healthcare organizations along with community partners across 10 counties in Northeast Ohio. With a dedicated and consistent history dating back over 100 years, The Center aims to enhance the effectiveness of the healthcare community and the health of the communities it serves by providing expertise, resources and solutions to address the challenges currently being faced by the region’s healthcare providers. The Center’s efforts focus on areas in which hospitals and their communities can benefit from a regional approach, including emergency preparedness; behavioral health; public policy and advocacy; finance and reimbursement; and social determinants of health. Through its business affiliates, CHAMPS Group Purchasing and The Essentials Group, The Center provides a broad level of professional services to its members. For more, visit neohospitals.org.