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Hospitals Face Challenges as Pandemic Continues

Bradley Gordon, FLICKR https://www.flickr.com/photos/13951072@N00/2185005577
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Bradley Gordon FLICKR

Hospitals and their employees face a number of challenges as they take care of an increasing number of patients with COVID-19.

Dr. Toyosi Olutade, Chief Medical Officer at UnityPoint Health Trinity
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UnityPoint Health Trinity
Dr. Toyosi Olutade, Chief Medical Officer at UnityPoint Health Trinity

Dr. Toyosi Olutade, Chief Medical Officer for UnityPoint Health Trinity, says last year, people put off routine health care. So currently, health care systems are dealing with pent-up demand. Even large health care organizations are shuffling patients and beds.

The doctor wishes he could say employees are doing very well, but in reality, they're tired. Many employees who planned to retire in a few years have decided to retire early. He says there are a limited number of nurses, respiratory therapists, and others to hire. And the number of employees leaving the health care is higher than the number coming in.

Olutade says everyone who works at the hospital is stressed out. Not just doctors and nurses, but also secretaries, clerks, lab and x-ray technicians, therapists, housekeepers, food service workers, and maintenance personnel.

Officially, Michelle's title for 28 years was WVIK News Editor. She did everything there is to do in the newsroom and whatever was needed around the radio station. She also served as Acting News Director from September 2023 - January 2024.
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