Health care workers faced one of the most pivotal points in their careers this year, and although vaccines have arrived on the SouthCoast, the battle is still not over. I don t think any of us woke up on Jan. 1, 2020, thinking we would be faced with a once-in-a-century pandemic that would change everything, said President Keith Hovan of Southcoast Health.
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 caused the nation to shut down, resulting in unemployment, shortages, illness and death. Hospitals were overflowing with sick patients and field hospitals were required to accommodate the rising number of cases. Personal protection equipment (PPE) was sparse but needed everywhere, especially in health care facilities.
Collaboration, flexibility and technology were key to survival this year, according to six nonprofit leaders from the SouthCoast. Though most of them miss the human element of hugs and in-person events, they say certain tools and lessons born of necessity are here to stay.
Technology becomes a tool to increase reach
Before COVID-19, the Greater New Bedford Community Health Center never provided care virtually, known as telehealth or telemedicine, said CEO Cheryl Bartlett. Now, she said care is about split between in-person and virtual visits.
The United Way of Greater New Bedford was forced to hold its largest fundraising event virtually this spring, but due to its success, Victoria Grasela, the vice president of marketing, said they want to include virtual elements for all future fundraisers.