WASHINGTON – FAH President and CEO Chip Kahn issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump declaring a national emergency:

“It is critically important to the health of the American people that the President has decided to proactively address the COVID-19 pandemic by declaring a national emergency. This action will free up vital resources and provide the administrative flexibility, particularly via waivers under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act, necessary to help hospitals meet the possible surge of patients.

“The threat of COVID-19 is rapidly evolving and will test our nation’s health system over the coming weeks and months. The President’s action gives HHS Secretary Alex Azar the authority to make crucial decisions in a timely fashion that will enable caregivers to meet this challenge.”