Michelle McEwen: Speare ready to meet Covid surge if it becomes necessary

To The Daily Sun,

Early on in the Covid-19 pandemic, we warned of a second wave. It was hard to believe a second wave was coming as we enjoyed summer holidays and vacations without an increase in cases. Unfortunately, with the onset of fall, the second wave has arrived. The daily number of new positive Covid cases in New Hampshire is outpacing what we saw this past spring. This is partially due to increased testing, but it is also due to the resumption of schools, sports, dining out, and social events. Covid fatigue has set in, and many are seeking the comfort of “the good old days” when we could share time and experiences with friends, families, and co-workers.

Hospitalizations for Covid in New Hampshire are on the rise and may soon equal or exceed the numbers experienced this past April and May. We certainly hope that is not the case, but if hospitalizations do increase dramatically, Speare is prepared. We removed our extra beds from the hospital and put our extra equipment and spare PPE into storage when it became apparent they were not required, but they stand ready when we need them. In the early phases of Covid, we created our surge plans for handling a disease that was extremely contagious and mysterious. We still have those plans and are poised to deploy them. These plans will serve as our guide to once again increase our capacity and secure the additional supplies, medications, and resources that we may need. We have stockpiled more PPE than what is our “norm.” and we have invested in reusable PPE such as gowns, face shields, and goggles so as not to deplete a limited supply of disposable items. We continue to work with our community partners, such as PSU and our Public Health Network, to ensure continued access to an Alternate Care Site, to further expand our capacity to care for our community.

Speare has taken over community testing for those with and without symptoms. By quickly identifying those with Covid, we are helping to decrease the further spread of this disease. However, this alone will not prevent our hospital beds from filling with Covid patients, our community from suffering the loss of those overtaken by this virus, or our businesses from facing another economic shutdown. We must work together to protect everyone in our community. We ask for your help in containing this pandemic and quickening its end so that we can resume normal activities. Please practice diligence with handwashing, masking, and social distancing. We encourage everyone to get a flu shot and make every effort possible to stay healthy and safe, especially during this upcoming holiday season.

Michelle McEwen, FACHE, CPA

President & CEO

Speare Memorial Hospital

Plymouth