The University of Toledo Medical Center’s pathology laboratory now has the ability to test for COVID-19 and deliver results in less than 48 hours. The service will significantly reduce the waiting period for patients and their physicians to confirm a diagnosis.
UTMC is the first laboratory in northwest Ohio with the capability to test for COVID-19.
The medical center is working closely with the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department and other area hospitals to prioritize testing for patients who are hospitalized with severe pneumonia or who are in intensive care units with severe respiratory illness. UTMC also will test symptomatic first responders and healthcare providers who have had direct exposure to a confirmed COVID-19 case while not wearing personal protective equipment.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced today that Ohio will take steps to cut expenditures in state government.
"Commercial activity is slowing down across Ohio, and as a result, state revenues will also go down dramatically. It is important, as Governor, that I take action now," said Governor DeWine. "The earlier we start slowing down the spending, the more impact it will have."
Governor DeWine ordered an immediate hiring freeze for all agencies, boards, and commissions under the control of the Governor. The only exceptions are for positions that provide:
- a direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic
- safety and security
- direct care or institutional services
Governor DeWine also ordered:
·A freeze on pay increases and promotions for state of Ohio unclassified and exempt staff.
·A freeze on new contract services for the state of Ohio, except for those services that are necessary for the emergency response.
·That state agencies work to cut unnecessary spending up to 20 percent for the remainder of this fiscal year and next fiscal year.
Governor DeWine also pulled back spending requests for a variety of projects that needed legislative spending authority.