National Public Health Week: Frontline Physicians Share Insights and Lessons from the COVID Experience

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – As we mark five years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, local doctors are reflecting on their unforgettable experiences in emergency rooms and intensive care units.

Dr. Tiffany Osborn, a physician at Barnes Jewish Hospital, recalls the early days of the pandemic and how she adapted by living in a camper. This allowed her to protect her family while continuing to serve her community. “We were saving for a home extension, but it turned into a camper in our driveway,” she explained. This clever choice helped her balance family time and long hospital shifts.

During those challenging times, Dr. Osborn created a special space in her camper for her kids. They would sit outside, trying to connect despite the circumstances. "We made the best of it. It was our way of being together," she shared.

Days at the hospital were grueling for Dr. Osborn, who divided her time between the emergency department and ICU. She held a strong belief: “No one dies alone.” Her team worked tirelessly to ensure that patients received care, even if she couldn’t be by their side.

The emotional toll extended beyond Dr. Osborn. Dr. Paul Kunnath from SSM Healthcare spoke about the heartbreaking moments of isolation faced by patients in their final days. "Families could only watch through videos," he said, advocating for a change in policy to prevent such separations in the future.

The pandemic revealed many lessons for healthcare. Dr. Kunnath reflected on the challenges posed by asymptomatic patients and the shortages of personal protective equipment. “It was tough to know who might spread the virus or get very sick,” he stated.

Dr. Osborn sold her camper in 2021 after she got vaccinated, but she keeps heartfelt reminders from her time as a caregiver, like thank-you cards and artwork from patients. “We care for people because we believe in the purpose of our work,” she said, underscoring the dedication shared by many in her profession.

Research shows that healthcare workers faced unprecedented stress during the pandemic, with studies indicating a spike in burnout rates. According to the American Psychological Association, over 60% of healthcare workers reported significant stress during this period.

These experiences are more than just stories; they serve as reminders of the resilience and compassion central to the medical profession. Through their sacrifices, healthcare workers have not only battled a virus but have also shown the profound impact of empathy in healing.

Learn more about the challenges faced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in this CDC report.

Source link

five years,COVID,reflect,healthcare workers,pandemic,started