In the aftermath of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, life will return to a new normal. I hope the new normal includes positive changes drawn from this life-altering experience:
Lesson #1: When there is no pill, simple actions can save lives.
Most of us never heard the phrase “social distancing” before. Now, along with hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette, it is our best weapon against the virus. Do not let down your guard. Continue practicing these simple actions. Lives depend on it.
Lesson #2: Everyone is at risk.
When the virus appeared, the elderly and those with suppressed immune systems were identified as high risk. While that remains true, we learned COVID-19 is an equal opportunity virus, infecting anyone in its path - from children to A-list celebrities, from the strong to the weak, indiscriminately taking lives along the way.
No one is to blame, or should be blamed for contracting COVID-19. That’s discrimination. Fear and misunderstanding are virus side-effects we must eliminate, replacing them with compassion and support for all. If we don’t, the virus wins. Honor the work of health care providers by seeing what they see – the person not the condition.
Lesson #3: Preparation is a never-ending task.
COVID-19 surprised everyone. Health care providers, including the country’s best, did not have pandemic-level supplies, and reliance on an internationally-based supply chain fuels supply shortages.
Speaking of preparation, this virus has impacted people who enjoy good health. I encourage anyone without an advance directive to examine their options during this stay-at-home time and make an advance directive part of their life. Advance directives provide direction when an individual can no longer make their own health care decisions.
Lesson #4: The importance of a strong local health care system.
Before the COVID-19 coronavirus outbreak became a pandemic, health care providers across this region – hospitals, physician groups, health departments, first responders and nursing homes - were working together and planning how to manage the situation to come.
It has not been easy. The public questions COVID-19 testing guidelines. Health care providers understand the concern. Statistics show that a majority of those who become infected will recover without needing hospital care. Therefore, national guidelines call for testing of those at highest risk, in addition to first responders and health care workers who risk their safety daily in the care of others. If testing is recommended for more people, health care providers will respond.
Locally, pandemic response has been successful so far. And that is thanks to the selfless individuals – doctors, nurses, technologists and technicians, support staff and leaders - who work tirelessly to protect the health of their communities.
The American health care system has opportunities for improvement, but the skill, commitment and compassion of the people who dedicate their lives to the system, as well as the outpouring of support from the community, are shining examples for the world.
Lesson #5: The importance of community.
Many people are living through the most difficult time of their lives. Please remember no one is alone. Each of us is a member of our community, communities of amazing individuals who keep the infrastructure operational and strong. These people include police and fire professionals and other city and county workers; EMS and other health care providers; pharmacy, restaurant, grocery and gasoline/convenience store staff; trucking companies and their drivers, garbage collectors; hotel and motel staff; journalists and any other essential professional I may have forgotten accidently.
Tri-State area residents’ spirit and cooperation make the region a unique and special place. This lesson we can teach others.
Maureen Kahn, RN, MHA, MSN
President/Chief Executive Officer, Blessing Health System