Amidst the spread of COVID-19 and it’s unprecedented global impact, you’ve probably heard the phrase “Stay home, save lives.” But what does that really mean?
Social distancing and the invitation to #StayHome are at the very core of the fight to save lives during this worldwide pandemic. Doing so can help flatten the curve—meaning decrease the anticipated spike in coronavirus cases in our communities. It also helps ease the burden on physicians and other healthcare professionals.
#StayHome, Save Lives
In a recent open letter to the American people, the American Medical Association (AMA), American Hospital Association (AHA) and American Nurses Association (ANA) urged all people nationwide to stay at home. “We are honored to serve and put our lives on the front line to protect and save as many lives as possible. But we need your help.”
They went on to express how social distancing and following stay at home orders are the key to slowing the spread of COVID-19. It gives those on the front lines, physicians and nurses, a chance to have adequate equipment, time, and resources to take on such an immense challenge.
Social Distancing Guidelines
Heeding the call to practice social distancing includes working from home if possible, canceling trips, and only going to public places like grocery stores and pharmacies if absolutely necessary. If you must go out in public, wear a mask and keep a safe distance of 6 feet between yourself and others.
While some may view these precautions as extreme, limiting contact with others through social distancing is the key to helping health care systems meet the needs of those who need it most.
Preventing hospitals from being overwhelmed by a massive spike in patients, protecting healthcare professionals, and slowing the spread of COVID-19 are crucial efforts that can be accomplished by staying home. This virus doesn’t just affect the elderly or those with existing medical conditions. It affects everyone. Now more than ever, we need to follow the guidelines of a national response to the coronavirus.
The message from healthcare professionals worldwide is, “We are staying at work for you. Please stay at home for us.”
Hope During Quarantine
Of course those with urgent medical needs—including pregnant women—should seek care as needed. However, everyone else should do what they can to remain at home. Take this time to stay connected with friends and loved ones through social media, video chat, and phone calls.
While these are challenging times, this can also be an opportunity to improve close social connections. Enjoy time with immediate family in the home and engage in meaningful conversations with others through the technology we’re fortunate enough to enjoy in today’s digital landscape.
Continue nourishing relationships at a distance while joining the millions of others throughout the world who are taking a conscious approach to confront the public health fight against COVID-19.
Staying at home truly is our best defense to support the healthcare professionals who don’t have that option. Stay at home for them, yourself, and for those around you. We’re in this together.
The team at Spring Creek Medical Center is here to support you during these challenging times. Contact us today with any questions or concerns.
