KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — There are numerous reasons to try to control the spread of COVID-19, but protecting our hospitals is a top priority.
The number one reason to control the spread of the virus is to save lives and protect those at high risk, but close behind is preventing an issue that could have a far greater impact than the virus itself: overwhelming health care facilities.
Our hospitals are equipped to handle a certain number of patients, and whether it is the smallest hospital or the biggest university hospital, there is a limited capacity.
Once those numbers are exceeded, the system — doctors, nurses, equipment, available medications, social support, maintenance and sterility — all can be overwhelmed.
This is a key reason why masks and social distancing are so important.