Survey Finds Fewer CA ER Docs Worried About Protective Gear, ICU Beds

Frontline doctors in California are increasingly optimistic about their ability to treat COVID-19 patients safely since the first survey two weeks ago.
The California Health Care Foundation and Truth on Call conducted thestatewide tracking poll of 150 ER and other critical care doctors.
Worries about the supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), ICU beds, ventilators and staff seem to be decreasing, said Kristof Stremikis, director of the foundation’s market analysis and insight team.
“Last time we asked a couple weeks ago, exactly two-thirds of physicians implied they were worried about running out of PPE, whereas this week only 31% did, so it fell by more than half," he said.
There is still room for improvement. A quarter of safety net doctors surveyed said neither they nor their patients have access to COVID-19 testing.
Our news is free on LAist. To make sure you get our coverage: Sign up for our daily coronavirus newsletter. To support our non-profit public service journalism: Donate Now.