Rep. Ruiz proposes strike team to prepare for potential surge in Coronavirus cases
WATCH LIVE:
Friday morning Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz (D) joined members of the local healthcare community to address concerns about the threat of the Coronavirus pandemic in Coachella Valley.
Eisenhower Health and Tenet Health were among those present during a teleconference.
What we’re seeing in northern Italy right now is a tragic example of what happens when the healthcare system becomes overwhelmed, and we’re not able to deliver care to the patients that they need. It’s critical for us to try and flatten the curve," Eisenhower Health Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Alan Williamson said.
Italy has experienced more than 47,000 Coronavirus cases since the outbreak exploded in February.
Friday local health officials referred to the country's crisis, and compared it to what could happen if Coachella Valley residents didn't heed the warning. They released projections solely for the valley alone.
Populations estimates-- a valley population is currently around 440,000 people. Our worst case projections show that just in a few months time we can expect over 4,000 of our residents to be infected, with almost 800 of these having severe complications requiring hospitalization, and 200 requiring intensive care," Eisenhower Health epidemiologist, Patricia Cummings said.
Doctors stressed that the area is exceptionally vulnerable due to a larger percentage of residents over the age of 65.
The ultimate goal has been to flatten the curve. On Thursday Gov. Gavin Newsom announced a statewide stay-at-home order.
"Self-isolate and quarantine when sick. We can drastically reduce these numbers and flatten the curve," Dr. Cummings said.
In the event of a surge in cases, Dr. Raul Ruiz announced the proposal of a Coachella Valley strike team made up of 3 people.
"We never want to get to a system overload, however we must prepare for a system overload," Dr. Ruiz said.
The task force would employ 3 people for specific functions to in the event of an increase in cases.
According to Ruiz, the first person would help with the coordination of tests. That person would help read tests, promote community access to tests, and report tests.
The second person would be responsible for discharge clearance.
The third person would "work with local hospitals and community as well as state for technical support, as well as streamlining the logistics supply chain," Dr. Ruiz said.
The creation of the force would ultimately be up to the county to coordinate with the state.
