We can stop COVID-19 in Pensacola. But we’ve got to do it together | Guestview – Pensacola News Journal

Tom VanOsdol, Guest columnist Published 9:41 a.m. CT July 31, 2020

COVID-19 has been an unprecedented challenge for everyone. Our nation has not faced such a daunting public health crisis since the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918.

Back then, the Daughters of Charity, who founded our health system in Pensacola and Mobile, quickly responded and emerged as unexpected heroes. Today, our healthcare heroes walk in their footsteps. Im extraordinarily grateful for all healthcare workers and particularly those with whom Im so blessed to serve. But we cant do this alone. We need your help.

COVID-19 is easily spread and can have devastating, long-lasting effects, but there are a few critical steps we can all take to reduce the risk of getting it or giving it:

We appreciate the efforts of local businesses and organizations that are implementing plans to curb COVID-19s spread, including mask and social distancing policies. I know these safety measures may seem uncomfortable, but we have a shared responsibility to care for others as if were caring for ourselves or our loved ones.

Again, get the care you need if you get sick, especially if its an emergency. Too often weve seen patients stay home during a health emergency because they were afraid to come to the hospital or their doctors office. Weve made changes to our sites of care to protect you from COVID-19, so dont delay the care you need.

We can and we must work together to beat COVID-19 by following these simple steps and listening to the advice of healthcare and infectious disease officials who provide us with proven techniques to help stop this serious, deadly virus from spreading.

Tom VanOsdol is president and CEO of Ascension Florida and Gulf Coast, which includes Ascension Providence based in Mobile, Ala., Ascension Sacred Heart based in Pensacola, Fla., and Ascension St. Vincents, based in Jacksonville, Fla.

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We can stop COVID-19 in Pensacola. But we've got to do it together | Guestview - Pensacola News Journal