SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California hospitals are launching a statewide public service campaign aimed at reassuring people that hospitals are safe for everyone in need during the pandemic.

“Care Can’t Wait” is a 30-second animated video that describes the concrete safety precautions California hospitals have implemented to ensure the well-being of everyone seeking care — both patients with symptoms of COVID-19 and those with non-COVID conditions.

The video will make a social media debut soon.

“We understand some people may have concerns about coming to a hospital during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Carmela Coyle, president & CEO of the California Hospital Association. “But deferring necessary medical care is not the right answer. We want everyone to know that if you or your loved one is experiencing signs of a serious medical condition, hospitals are safe, ready, and waiting to care for you.”

Coyle noted that hospitals across the state have implemented a number of new and enhanced procedures to ensure the safety of patients, employees, and visitors, including:

· Screening and temperature checks of everyone entering a facility

· Separate triage and treatment areas for COVID and non-COVID patients

· Enhanced deep cleaning procedures utilizing UV disinfecting technology and anti-viral cleaning products

· Requiring that all hospitals workers, patients, and visitors wear face masks at all times

“The fact that so many people are hesitant to seek necessary medical care is very alarming — and points to a secondary health care crisis in the making,” Coyle said. “Not only are we in the midst of the pandemic, but we face an even greater disease burden resulting from undiagnosed or untreated illnesses, and missed preventative health opportunities.”

“For everyone’s health and well-being, California’s hospitals urge everyone to seek care when they need it,” Coyle added. “Do this for yourself and for your loved ones.”