Out-of-state health care professionals will be allowed to continue to operate in New York during the coronavirus pandemic based on an executive order signed Tuesday by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The order extends the ability of licensed health care workers like doctors, nurses and physician assistants to provide support in New York during the pandemic through June 4.

"We are forever indebted to the countless doctors, nurses, physician assistants, respiratory therapists and other health care professionals from neighboring states who came to help the family of New York when we needed it most,” Cuomo said in a statement.“They helped us get through the worst of this pandemic, and we will never forget their sacrifice. Today I am extending the executive order that allows these heroes to continue practicing in the Empire State, because although the apex is behind us, we continue to need their support. Words cannot express how grateful we are to them and all the frontline workers who are carrying us through this difficult period, but we will continue to try every single day.”

Hospitalizations in New York have continued a multi-day decline as have new coronavirus-related hospitalizations amid a shutdown order that took effect in March and has barred non-essential businesses and schools from opening.

Still, the decline of the number of coronavirus cases has been a slow one in New York, with the descent leveling off gradually and far less sharply than the rise in cases.