Texas Gov. Abbott Halts Elective Surgeries in Four Counties Due to Rising COVID-19 Cases

Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday issued an executive order suspending elective surgeries at hospitals in Bexar, Dallas, Harris and Travis counties. The move is aimed at ensuring there are enough hospital beds available for COVID-19 patients as Texas faces an increase in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. 

Under the order, all hospitals in the four named counties are required to postpone all surgeries and procedures that are not immediately, medically necessary to correct a serious medical condition or to preserve the life of a patient who without immediate performance of the surgery or procedure would be at risk for serious adverse medical consequences or death, as determined by the patient’s physician. 

“These four counties have experienced significant increases in people being hospitalized due to COVID-19, and today’s action is a precautionary step to help ensure that the hospitals in these counties continue to have ample supply of available beds to treat COVID-19 patients,” said Abbott. “As we work to contain this virus, I urge all Texans to do their part to help contain the spread by washing their hands regularly, wearing a mask, and practicing social distancing.”