COVID Crisis Plans Lifted At Anne Arundel, Prince George's Hospitals As Metrics Improve

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Luminis Health, a Maryland hospital system, lifted its coronavirus crisis standards of care last Thursday. The news comes as COVID-19 metrics continue to improve in Anne Arundel and Prince George's counties, which are where the company's two facilities are located.

“It will take some time to return to normal operations,” Luminis Health CEO Victoria Bayless said in a press release. “However, we are now at a point where the surge is currently not exceeding the health care resources available.”

Luminis Heath implemented its crisis standards of care on Jan. 4. That was the first time the hospitals ever resorted to these most severe emergency plans. This followed a surge in hospitalizations largely driven by the highly contagious, but milder, omicron variant of the coronavirus.

The protocols postponed surgeries that weren't urgent, and they reserved the emergency rooms for patients with life-threatening injuries or illnesses. The policy also let Luminis Health shuffle workers at its two hospitals, Anne Arundel Medical Center in Annapolis and Doctors Community Medical Center in Lanham.

Surgeries are now cleared to ramp up. Luminis Health is welcoming back patients who delayed their care or treatments. The facilities are still busier than normal, however, so leaders suggested visiting private practices for minor ailments.

“The hospitals are safe, ready and open for those requiring emergent care," said Dr. Sherry Perkins, president of Anne Arundel Medical Center. "Those with non-emergent conditions should seek care from their primary care providers or urgent care centers. In addition, consistent follow up with your care provider is important."

Luminis Heath still has visitor restrictions. The medical system is evaluating these rules. Masks are required in hospitals. The latest guidelines are posted here.

The health team continues to suggest masking, distancing and handwashing. Residents can book a COVID-19 vaccine or booster shot with Luminis Health at this link.

“We are so proud of our staff who worked, and continue to work, so hard to care for our communities,” said Deneen Richmond, president of Doctors Community Medical Center. “We also thank Governor Hogan and the National Guard for standing up COVID-19 testing sites near our campuses in Annapolis and Lanham.”

Head to covidtest.maryland.gov to get a test. Visit covidvax.maryland.gov to get a vaccine or a booster shot. Browse coronavirus.maryland.gov to see the daily health metrics.

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