Support Frontline Workers

COVID-19 is the biggest threat the United States has faced since 9/11. Our economy and public safety are endangered like never before. Just as we did during 9/11, we are asking a professional sector of our society to see us through. In the days following September 11th, first responders and armed service members led the recovery and justice efforts. During the era of the coronavirus, doctors, nurses and healthcare workers are the heroes this nation is depending on.

Frontline healthcare workers are making enormous sacrifices on our behalf. Through their constant and round-the-clock treatment efforts, they are exposing themselves to the worst of the virus. Tragically, some of the infections that they’ll contract will be fatal. In addition to physical risk, doctors and nurses are self-isolation from their own family members, out of fear from spreading the virus in their own households.

Unfortunately, social distancing measures mean that scheduled and elective care procedures are placed on hold. While it may be necessary to flatten the curve, these holds and cancellations mean that health care providers are losing revenue. If these losses are severe enough, then we could see mass closures of hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Congress has both the opportunity and ability to put frontline healthcare workers at the forefront of the next stimulus package. The CARES Act was a step in the right direction; we should continue where we left off and send more financial support to the front lines.

— Dr. Chetan Shah, Hopewell