The University System of Georgia announces it will work with its 26 colleges and universities to supply medical equipment to health workers during the coronavirus pandemic.
The supplies available include ventilators, personal protective equipment and other tools needed statewide. The university system will work with Governor Brian Kemp’s Office, the Georgia Department of Public Health and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency to brings these items in areas of the state that need them the most.
“The University System of Georgia and our 26 institutions will continue to do all we can to support our healthcare workers at the frontlines of this fight,” USG Chancellor Steve Wrigley says in the release. “I am grateful to Governor Kemp for his leadership, and appreciate the help and collaboration from GEMA and DPH to get this done.”
These items would otherwise be used for campus research, maintenance, nursing programs and on-campus clinics that have slowed down because of the closure of university campuses.
A survey of over 200 nurses in Georgia reveals seven in 10 do not feel “safe and equipped” to work during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Georgia Nursing Association.
On March 17, Governor Kemp signed House Bill 792, an amended fiscal budget that offers $100 million in emergency funding against COVID-19. But, the state continues to seek more contributions.
Governor Kemp recognizes the university system for the contributions they are making to aid health workers.
“Across our state, Georgians are working tirelessly to coordinate efforts in our fight against COVID-19,” Governor Kemp says in the release. “I applaud the University System of Georgia for taking action to keep our healthcare workforce and communities safe and healthy in the weeks ahead. We are all in this fight together.”
The university system also partners with the state’s emergency management agency and public health department to increase testing capabilities. Some institutions have already taken the initiative to develop COVID-19 therapies, offer 3D-printed medical gear and sewing masks for healthcare workers.
Scientists at Georgia State University are researching how COVID-19 performs, according to a news article by the university.
Take a look at the breakdown of supplies the University System of Georgia offers.
- Ventilators: 38
- Gloves: 375,755
- Masks (including surgical and N95): 19,718
- Medical gowns, coveralls and accessories (including hair and shoe covers): 18,020
- Goggles (includes face shields): 2,061
- Sanitizing supplies (includes hand sanitizer, spray sanitizer and sanitizing wipes): 1,757
- Thermometers: 300
Note: This story was written for PRN, the student-led news station at Georgia State University.
