CaHPSA E-Newsletter
Volume 1, Issue 10
A Global Pandemic: The Novel Coronavirus
An overview of the COVID-19 outbreak and its impact on the United States healthcare system
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Overview of COVID-19 Pandemic
 The most recent pandemic seems to have almost put the world on hold as many countries are enforcing a "stay at home" order and the global infection count has reached 754,948 cases spread among 202 countries, as of March 31, 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During this COVID-19 outbreak, it is important to familiarize oneself with the nature of the coronavirus and also how to best minimize the risk of exposure.
The family of viruses, Coronavirus, is a large group of viruses that are common to humans and various other species of animals. The respiratory disease causing the current pandemic is a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. The disease caused by this virus is named the “coronavirus disease 2019” or COVID-19. This novel coronavirus is most similar to the middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS) and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) viruses in that they all belong to the coronavirus family and originated in bats before transferring to humans.
This virus is mainly spread from person to person through close contact (less than 6 feet), most notably through respiratory droplets from an infected individual's cough or sneeze.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Based on the incubation period for the MERS-CoV Virus, it is expected that COVID-19 symptoms may show 2-14 days after exposure. It is also important to note that while a person is most contagious when symptoms are present, an asymptomatic person can still spread the virus. Some people are at higher risk of developing severe complications than others. These people are usually seniors (65+), those with serious underlying medical conditions (such as chronic lung disease or moderate/severe asthma or serious heart conditions), and those that are immunocompromised (meaning their immune system is not functioning at optimal capacity due to illness or medication).
Global Statistics
- Total cases as of March 31, 2020: 754,948 cases globally
- Total deaths as of March 31, 2020: 36,571 deaths
- Total recovered as of March 31, 2020: 176,908 recovered
- Countries with the most cases as of March 31, 2020: United States (140,640), Italy (101,739), Spain (85,195)
How to Minimize the Risk of Infection
 Since there is currently no vaccine for this novel coronavirus, it is important to take certain precautions to minimize your chances of exposure to this virus. Some of these precautions include:
- Wash hands frequently (with soap for at least 20 seconds).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Maintain distance from those who are sick.
- Avoid public gatherings.
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COVID-19 and the US Healthcare System
As global cases of COVID-19 continue to increase, the healthcare systems of over 200 countries are now being tested. Many countries, including the United States, are struggling to control the spread of the virus in order to “flatten the curve” before the number of cases exceeds their healthcare system’s capacity.
Particularly in the US, focus has fallen on the infrastructure of our national healthcare system, which does not offer universal coverage and provides care within a fragmented system. This pandemic has revealed significant gaps in our health and medical systems as well as safety net programs. Furthermore, it is deepening existing health and economic disparities which can ultimately exacerbate and prolong this crisis.
As global cases of COVID-19 continue to increase, the healthcare systems of over 200 countries are now being tested. Many countries, including the United States, are struggling to control the spread of the virus in order to “flatten the curve” before the number of cases exceeds their healthcare system’s capacity.
Healthcare remains a necessity during this unprecedented time, especially in highly impacted nations like the US. While millions have health insurance through employer-sponsored health plans or federal Medicaid, far too many remain uninsured, underinsured, or ineligible for coverage. As many businesses shut down, more people are expected to lose their health insurance coverage. These individuals and families are at a significant disadvantage as they face this public health crisis. Additionally, healthcare cost and access continue to be significant barriers to getting coronavirus testing and treatment.
 COVID-19 is undoubtedly putting a great deal of strain on the US healthcare system. Critical challenges include shortages in healthcare workers, hospital beds, and medical equipment, as well as unequal access to testing and treatment among marginalized communities. Our system is not meeting the current and projected needs of the population.
During this global crisis, we are reminded of the urgent need for a universal healthcare system in which coverage is not tied to employment, socioeconomic status, and immigration status. Such a system would reduce administrative waste and allocate more funding for medical resources, healthcare workforce development, and patient care, putting the US in a better position to tackle future pandemics and national medical emergencies.
CaHPSA members will continue to support current bills and programs that offer immediate relief to patients and healthcare workers, while remaining committed to advocating for larger-scale reform so that we can build a better healthcare system, one that works for ALL people.
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A Meaningful Way to Contribute: Donate PPE
 Hospitals and clinics around the nation are running critically low on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as masks and gloves. Healthcare workers rely on PPE to keep themselves healthy as they treat COVID-19 patients. If you are able to donate to your local hospital or community health center, please contact them directly for dropoff instructions! CaHPSA will feature some additional donation opportunities on our newsletter and social media. If you would like to share a PPE request on behalf of your clinic, please contact us at info@cahpsa.org.
Commonly accepted items:
- N95 masks
- Surgical masks
- Face shields
- Safety goggles
- Latex and non-latex gloves
- Disposable gowns
- Disinfectant wipes
- Hand sanitizer
- Thermometers
A PPE Donation Opportunity in Los Angeles
CaHPSA Advisor, Jessica Osorio, has shared the following PPE request on behalf of two LA County hospitals. Jessica is a third-year medical student at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
“Olive View-UCLA Medical Center and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, both Los Angeles County hospitals, are running critically low on personal protective equipment for healthcare workers. They are in need of donations of the following: N95 masks, surgical masks, face shields, safety goggles (may be used), latex and non-latex gloves, disposable gowns, bleach or antimicrobial wipes, and hand sanitizer. Any donations will be greatly appreciated. To make a donation please contact me at: info@cahpsa.org.”
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CaHPSA Virtual Engagement Opportunities
 In the spirit of community-building, CaHPSA will create engaging virtual spaces and content for our members to connect with leadership, physicians, staff, and fellow advocates! Please email us at info@cahpsa.org if you would like to RSVP to one of the following virtual events.
April 3rd: Webinar with CaPA President, Dr. Steve Tarzynski
Dr. Steve Tarzynski will host a Zoom video webinar on Friday, April 3, 2020 at 3 PM to provide an assessment of the current COVID-19 public health crisis and the situation in California.
April 18th: CaPA/CaHPSA Mentoring Session
Join us for the virtual CaPA/CaHPSA statewide mentoring session on Saturday, April 18, 2020 at 10 AM via Zoom video, during which time CaPA members will share their advocacy experiences with CaHPSA members.
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Stay tuned for our next issue of the CaHPSA E-Newsletter!
Read our past newsletters here
Questions? Suggestions for future newsletters? Contact us
CaHPSA is the student section of California Physicians Alliance (CaPA).
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