War with an invisible enemy, and facing the fight to come – ZAWYA

War with an invisible enemy, and facing the fight to come – ZAWYA

In these early stages of the outbreak, and beyond the public health response, health care providers in GCC states urgently need to consider several fundamentals for the fight to come against this new threat.. The collaboration is effective only by establishing a government-led command and control center to coordinate the activities of all health care providers across the country, backed by potential regional branches, to facilitate a quick and effective response to emergencies and spikes in demand.. Establishing a clear pathway to guide health care professionals on how to manage suspected and confirmed cases is a top priority, especially at the entry points of the health care system such as primary health care centers or ERs that tend to be unequipped to face the virus.. , guidelines on prioritizing access to full ICUs will ensure unbiased decisions and the full legal protection of health care professionals.. Health care providers must be mindful of the physical and mental health of their employees and implement initiatives designed to support overall well-being.. While fighting COVID-19, health care providers still need to look after all non-coronavirus patients requiring health care services.. After winning the war, we must win the peace.. The crisis will push