“We support the state’s efforts to bolster Wisconsin’s healthcare needs during this pandemic”
By Gregory Brusko, DO
Chief Clinical Officer, Ascension Wisconsin
Ascension Wisconsin is currently prepared to handle the surge in patient volumes with adequate space and supplies. We are fortunate as a statewide system to make intra-hospital transfers when appropriate and necessary. We continue to work with Wisconsin regional healthcare emergency readiness coalitions (HERC) to coordinate response efforts.
At this time, our health system is experiencing its highest COVID-19 inpatient volumes since the beginning of the pandemic. While all our sites of care have prepared surge plans to adapt to the changing needs of our community, the rate at which the virus is spreading is deeply concerning. We are experiencing an increase in the number of staff unable to work due to community exposure, which puts a strain on staffing resources at all levels.
Fortunately, we have the power to turn things around. We need everyone to take this seriously and do what they can to slow the spread. Wash your hands, watch your distance and wear masks while in public.
In addition, it is more important than ever to get your influenza (flu) shot. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all people aged six months and older are vaccinated.”
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Editor’s Note: Ascension Wisconsin’s statement on the opening of the state Alternate Care Facility was issued on Wednesday, Oct. 7, one day after Governor Tony Evers announced the activation of the state’s Alternate Care Facility in West Allis, Wis.
As part of his announcement, the Governor stated; “Due to increased COVID-19 hospitalizations and at the request of hospital systems, the Alternate Care Facility (ACF) at Wisconsin State Fair Park will begin accepting COVID-19 patients within the next week. The announcement comes as Wisconsin health systems experience rising pressure to manage record surges in COVID-19 patient hospitalizations. As of yesterday, there were 853 COVID-19 hospitalizations, an increase of 71 over the day before.”