SSM Health’s Boatwright ‘cautiously optimistic’ about fight against COVID-19

SSM Health in Wisconsin Regional President Damond Boatwright is “cautiously optimistic” about where the state is in its fight against COVID-19, given supplies of personal protective equipment and hospital capacity.

Dane County providers are doing OK when it comes to personal protective equipment, Boatwright said during a Thursday webinar hosted by the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce. He credited Wisconsin employers for stepping up and providing equipment they depend on, like masks and gloves.

He added they’re being frugal about distribution too.

“We’re in a really good position when it comes to PPE as we sit here today,” Boatwright said. “We can’t predict what’s going to happen three months from now. We have no idea what surges are going to exist beyond today.”

Boatwright said Wisconsin is also doing well on capacity, noting that COVID-19 is trending downward overall in the state.

There are also surge plans in place, which could be deployed this fall to boost hospital space as the state battles flu season and other respiratory illnesses alongside COVID-19.

However, Boatwright warned about workforce fatigue.

“I’m worried about our healthcare workers and their ability to sustain this for another four to six months, likely, as we get through the flu season that will be coming up in October,” he said. “That’s my biggest worry.”

This article first appeared in the Wisconsin Health News daily email newsletter. Sign up for your free trial here.