American Medical Association President: Physicians Need Equipment, Support Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

Medical personnel on the front line combating the coronavirus pandemic are faced with another crisis: the shortage of protective gear and crucial equipment such as ventilators.

According to a study by the Center for Health Security at Johns Hopkins, the United States currently has an estimated 160,000 ventilators. The study estimates 740,000 ventilators would be needed in the case of a “severe” pandemic.

But there may be some relief on the way.

On Wednesday, the White House and Senate announced a $2 trillion coronavirus spending package that includes aid for the nation’s health care system.

Still, in the meantime, how do we keep medical professionals safe as they treat those with the coronavirus?

President of the Atlanta-based American Medical Association, Dr. Patrice Harris, joined “Closer Look with Rose Scott” on Wednesday for a conversation about the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on those in the medical field.

Guest:

  • President of the Atlanta-based American Medical Association, Dr. Patrice Harris

To listen to the full conversation, use the audio player above.