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Gov. Ducey Declares Health Emergency In Arizona

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey Wednesday announced that he has issued a Declaration of Emergency related to the growing number of cases of COVID-19 in the state.

Ducey also announced an executive order aimed at slowing the spread of coronavirus in Arizona.

“While Arizona is not currently facing the number of cases we’ve seen in some other states, we are anticipating additional positive cases and we’re not taking any chances,” said Ducey. “This is about public health and protecting lives.”

The emergency declaration names the Arizona Department of Health Services as the entity responsible for coordinating the state’s response. It also allows ADHS to waive licensing requirements if needed in order to assist in delivering services.

The declaration frees up $500,000 in emergency funds to aid in protection of public health and allows the state to procure good and services as needed for that purpose.

Ducey’s executive order pertains more to possible incurred costs by Arizonans who think they are infected.

It requires insurers cover out-of-network healthcare providers, including labs and telemedicine.

It also waives all copays, coinsurance and deductibles for testing that could diagnose a person with COVID-19 and lowers co-pays for telemedicine visits.

The order implements protections against price-gouging related to COVID-19 diagnosis and treatment.

It also requires symptom checks for workers and visitors at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, as well as nursing homes.

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