Opinion: A shortage of physicians with experience treating hospitalized patients could threaten the next surge response
As Covid-19 cases reach a record high in the U.S., models project that this third wave of the pandemic may be the worst yet. The confluence of weather patterns, pandemic fatigue, loose social distancing guidelines, and the upcoming flu season have led to a surge of hospitalizations that will continue to rise over the next few months.
Concerns are once again growing about hospital capacity in terms of available beds and equipment, as well as the availability of frontline health care providers and how to keep them from getting Covid-19. One looming shortage that has been overlooked is the shortage of providers with experience in treating hospitalized patients.
