GREENWOOD VILLAGE, COLO. – March 13, 2020

“As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, Colorado hospitals and health systems know our patients and communities are increasingly concerned about the spread of the virus and the response of the hospital system,” said Chris Tholen, president and CEO, Colorado Hospital Association. “It is important to know that all hospitals and health systems regularly prepare for the unexpected. Our system’s response to other crises in the past, like fires, mass shootings and other pandemics like the H1N1 swine flu or the Ebola outbreak, has only strengthened our ability to address the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Currently, our hospitals are working closely with our local, state and federal partners to respond to this challenge, and each day we continue to work together on plans for supplies, staff and space. In Colorado, we have a shared agreement between all hospitals that is enacted during times of crisis. This allows our hospitals to share resources – including equipment, supplies and even staff and providers – with each other whenever needed. It is also fortunate that due to recent population growth in Colorado, many of our health systems and hospitals have increased the number of patients they are able to provide care for, which should help during this time.

“With that said, it is important to remember that we will all play a role in ‘flattening the curve’ and slowing the pandemic so that we don’t overwhelm the health care system. We are paying close attention to the protection of our health care workers and making sure that they have the equipment, training and support they need to provide care to patients.

“We strongly ask the public to follow CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19: wash your hands, avoid close contact with people who are sick and stay home if you are sick.”

About Colorado Hospital Association

Colorado Hospital Association (CHA) is the leading voice of Colorado’s hospital and health system community. Representing more than 100 member hospitals and health systems throughout the state, CHA serves as a trusted, credible and reliable resource on health issues, hospital data and trends for its members, media, policymakers and the general public. Through CHA, Colorado’s hospitals and health systems work together in their shared commitment to improve health and health care in Colorado. For more information, visit www.cha.com