For physicians and others from the medical community, the outpouring of support from our patients and our communities has been appreciated more than words could possibly express.
It is both our honor and obligation to care for our patients in any circumstance, including during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many have asked if there are ways in which you can help us. There is. And it’s simple.
We urge you to adopt strict social distancing habits and stay home as much as you possibly can, and this includes avoiding any unnecessary travel and outdoor activities. Additionally, anyone considered high risk should limit social interactions as much as possible.
We all must do our part to limit the spread of illness. By doing so, you keep us healthy so that we can be where we are needed most.
Not only are you protecting your loved ones and your neighbors, but you are also helping to ensure that we have the resources, medical equipment and — perhaps most importantly — the time to meet the rising influx of patients who need care.
We know that so many of you are already leading by example and adhering to social distancing recommendations and we know it isn’t easy. Like you, we are relying on technology to stay in contact with our family and friends and we encourage you to do so, as that feeling of connection is so important to health and wellbeing.
Our plea to you is simple — the most valuable service you can provide to help defeat this COVID-19 pandemic is to stay at home. Please be our partners, please be our teammates … please stay home.
We will face challenges, we will face struggles, but with your support, together we will recover, and we will heal.
Ronald Newman, MD
President
Essex South District Medical Society
