As the coronavirus afflicts more people, Bay Area hospitals are looking to bring in more help — even if it means relying on a demographic health experts say should remain isolated at home.
In a tweet, the Colma Police Department said San Mateo County is asking medical professionals, even those who are retired, to help fight COVID-19. According to the department, the county needs doctors, nurses, dentists, medical assistants and even veterinarians.
San Mateo County is looking for any and all current or retired medical professionals who may be able to assist in response to COVID-19. They need doctors, nurses, dentists, veterinarians, medical assistants, etc. To volunteer please contact [email protected] or 650-997-8300.
— Colma Police (@ColmaPD) March 19, 2020
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has urged those age 60 and older to stay inside. Most deaths from the coronavirus have been among elderly people. Yet, the call for help specifically mentions retired medical professionals.
In an earlier interview with this news organization, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center CEO Paul Lorenz said he considered all medical professionals “essential employees,” meaning if they are healthy and able, they should come to work.
Hospitals in recent days have sounded warnings that if the pandemic continues to spread at its current pace, they could face a shortage of supplies like ventilators, rooms for critically ill patients — and medical staff.
Brian Dossey, the Colma city manager, said San Mateo County reached out to cities in the area asking for help getting word out.
“I think it’s just part of the planning,” he said, adding that officials are trying to anticipate what the county will need “if this escalates.”
