OHIO, USA — As local and state officials continue to implement measures, such as face mask mandates, to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Ohio,many are concerned about the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE).
When the pandemic first began, hospitals were running low on masks, hair and shoe covers, and gowns. On Tuesday,a National Nurses' Union and a Doctor Association voiced their concerns surrounding the lack of PPE and the dangers associated with supplies being reused.
As of now, most hospitals here in Northeast Ohio say they are in better shape than at the beginning of the pandemic. 3News reached out to three hospitals and received the following responses when asked about the potential of a PPE shortage at their respective facilities.
MetroHealth Medical Center says they good on PPE at the moment and " feel confident" they are adequately covered.
A spokesperson for Cleveland Clinic says the organization has been planning for several months and continues to monitor its supplies. The hospital says it is in communication with its supplier to ensure they "have what they need to care for their patients."
University Hospitals has not yet gotten back to us with an update.