Indiana’s stay-at-home order is being extended through May 1, but the state is easing its restrictions on elective medical procedures. Governor Eric Holcomb announced the adjustments during Monday’s press conference.
“The first stage, starting tomorrow, Tuesday, hospitals could and should, in cases, conduct clinical procedures to diagnose and to screen and to treat medical conditions,” Holcomb explained.
Those could include procedures to diagnose cancer or heart problems, as well as procedures to reduce pain. Other types of elective procedures could be opened up next Monday, depending on the personal protective equipment levels around the state such as face masks and examination gloves.
The governor also clarified Monday that nurseries, greenhouses, and pet groomers can already be open. “We heard some comments and received some questions about how, which we believed were addressed in a previous executive order,” he explained. “But we’ve put out some further guidance, and that can be found at IN.gov.”
Holcomb said the state is able to look at easing restrictions thanks to residents’ social distancing efforts and generosity, as well as the hard work of the state’s health care providers. He stressed that safety will continue to be the priority and that any decisions will be driven by hospital admissions and case numbers around the state.
But State Health Commissioner Dr. Kris Box didn’t rule out the possibility that those who are over the age of 60 or have underlying health issues may have to continue working from home until a vaccine is developed. She doesn’t expect that to happen until late in the year.
