07/22/2020

Statement on Behalf of Physicians regarding Gov. Mike DeWine's Statewide Mask Order

Masks Save Lives

We support Gov. Mike DeWine’s decision to mandate facial coverings. This measure will save thousands of lives by dramatically slowing the spread of COVID-19. Our support is based on science and evidence. Wearing a mask protects the people around you, and newer studies show it also protects the wearer.

We also remind Ohioans to practice physical distancing and good hand hygiene. When we take these precautions along with facial coverings we can reduce the spread of the coronavirus. Because there is no doubt that COVID-19 spreads readily from people without symptoms, it is important that all Ohioans take these simple steps. It is incumbent on all of us to defeat this deadly virus.

Earlier this month, a coalition of physician organizations initiated a social media campaign Doctors Orders: Mask + 6 Feet urging Ohioans to wear masks and practice physical distancing. The coalition includes the Ohio State Medical Association, Ohio Osteopathic Association, Ohio Academy of Family Physicians, Ohio Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, Ohio Psychiatric Physicians Association, and Ohio Association of Community Health Centers.

THE FOLLOWING QUOTES MAY BE ATTRIBUTED AS NOTED:

Ohio Osteopathic Association (OOA) OhioDO.org
President Sandra L. Cook, DO
The OOA commends Gov. DeWine for his efforts in leading Ohio’s battle against COVID-19. This order mandating the wearing of masks in public will reduce infections and mortality throughout the state. This simple and selfless act will benefit not only you but also your loved ones and your community.

Ohio Academy of Family Physicians (OAFP) ohioafp.org
President Anna McMaster, MD
Some individuals can contract COVID-19 and yet never present symptoms, so they don’t know they have it. The virus can spread even between individuals without symptoms. That’s why masks and social distancing are so important.

Ohio Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians (Ohio ACEP) ohacep.org
President Ryan Squier, MD
Without a cure, personal choices and safe behaviors are the best defense against spreading COVID-19 and overwhelming our health care system. Some individuals can contract COVID-19 and yet never present symptoms, so they don’t know they have it. The virus can spread even between individuals without symptoms. Perhaps it is inconvenient or uncomfortable, but a mask is the greatest display of respect and consideration for others during these times.

Ohio Psychiatric Physicians Association (OPPA) ohiopsychiatry.org
President Megan Testa, MD
In addition to the physical toll that this pandemic is taking on our physical well, the coronavirus is placing increased emotional stressors on all of us, including individuals who may have already been suffering from a mental illness or substance use disorder. It is the responsibility of each of us to do everything we can to stay healthy and keep others healthy which includes wearing a mask and social distancing of at least six feet. As psychiatric physicians, we strongly encourage anyone who has feelings of depression, hopelessness, or helplessness, or knows someone who is suffering, to seek help.

Ohio Association of Community Health Centers (OACHC) ohiochc.org
Chief Medical Officer Dana Vallangeon, MD
On behalf of our member Health Centers and the patients and communities so well served, the OACHC supports and encourages the use of masks (and distancing) by all Ohioans. These are two critical steps we can all collectively take to protect each other and combat COVID-19.  

Ohio Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (Ohio ACOFP) ohioacofp.org
President Lili Lustig, DO
As family physicians, Ohio ACOFP members are called on, literally and figuratively, by their communities to defeat the coronavirus. It is alarming to see the daily increase in cases. That’s why we fully endorse Gov. DeWine’s statewide mask mandate. Please stay vigilant, Ohio! Wear your mask, wash your hands, limit gatherings, and let’s prevent the further spread of COVID-19.

 The Ohio Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians (Ohio ACEP) is dedicated to advancing excellence in emergency care, and advocating for emergency physicians, their patients and the health of the community. Ohio ACEP is the state chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, representing Ohio with over 1600 members.

Visit ACEP’s www.emergencyphysicians.org for more information about protecting yourself from COVID-19.

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Contact: Laura L. Tiberi, CAE
Executive Director
Ohio Chapter, American College of Emergency Physicians
ltiberi@ohacep.org