New York Physicians Need Adequate Tools to Fight War on COVID-19
MEDICAL SOCIETY OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
865 Merrick Avenue, Westbury, New York 11590-9007
www.mssny.org
Communications Division
Telephone: (516) 488-6100
For Immediate Release
April 1, 2020
New York Physicians Need Adequate Tools to Fight
War on COVID-19
In addition, physicians must retain the right to speak out about
conditions that endanger patients and healthcare workers
Statement attributable to:
Art Fougner, MD
President, Medical Society of the State of New York
“As New York physicians continue to fight on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic, our first priority is—and always has been—the health and well-being of our patients. But we can’t be thrown into this war zone without adequate tools. It is imperative that we are provided with the best available defense, including Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and workplace practices and policies to reduce disease transmission.
“Unfortunately, despite everyone’s best efforts to facilitate the availability, we continue to hear far too many disturbing reports from physicians about inadequate PPE availability in the hospitals and office settings where they are delivering patient care. This is shameful and must be addressed.
“In addition, physicians must retain the right to speak out about conditions that we perceive as endangering ourselves, our patients, and our colleagues’ well-being without fear of repercussion. Our patients’ welfare is our first priority and we must retain our freedom to advocate for them, including expressing concerns regarding conditions and safety.”
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About the Medical Society of the State of New York
Founded in 1807, the Medical Society of the State of New York is the state’s principal non-profit professional organization for physicians, residents and medical students of all specialties. Its mission is to represent the interests of patients and physicians to assure quality healthcare services for all.
MSSNY Contact:
Roseann Raia
Communications / Marketing
Medical Society of the State of New York
865 Merrick Ave.
Westbury, New York
516-488-6100 ext 302
rraia@mssny.org
