Continuing City-wide efforts to increase resources available to local hospitals and medical professionals to slow the spread of COVID-19, Mayor Kevin L. Faulconer called on local nursing students, medical residents, and health care workers who have retired or change professions to register with The state of California and perform paid work in what is expected to be a surge in COVID-19 related cases.
 
“We expect a surge and we must be ready to provide the medical services necessary to save lives,” Faulconer said. “Our City is known for its expertise in science, in health, and in medicine. This is a statewide effort and I know San Diegans will rise to the occasion and do their part to help.”
 
Joined by the City of San Diego’s Associate Medical Director Dr. Donofrio-Ödmann and Jesse Conner of Local 145 firefighter’s union, Mayor Faulconer issued the call for more manpower ahead of a surge in COVID-19 related cases that most experts agree will happen in the coming weeks.  
“With the expected surge in COVID-19 cases on its way, we need the help of anyone with a medical background to ensure San Diego is prepared,” Councilmember Jennifer Campbell said. “While I’m so disappointed I can’t join this fight, I hope those who can sign up to help keep San Diegans safe in the hour of their need.”
 
“The 3 S’s are needed in this fight: Structure, Stuff, and Staff. We are calling on all medical professionals, of all levels, who are available and willing, to sign up and be available when we need you,” said Donofrio-Ödmann. “Your service and sacrifice will make a difference and save lives.”
 
In order to ensure adequate staff for healthcare sites across the state of California, healthcare providers, behavioral health professionals, and healthcare administrators are encouraged to register. Under the state program, applicants that receive approval will be paid and provided with malpractice insurance coverage.
 
According to the state of California, the following healthcare professionals, are needed: • Physicians (MD, DO), including medical residents • Pharmacists • Dentists • Nurse practitioners • Physician assistants • Nurses (RN, LVN, CAN) including nursing students • Behavioral health professionals (psychiatrist, psychiatric technician, psychiatric nurse practitioner, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) • Respiratory therapists • Paramedics • Medical assistants • Emergency medical technicians  
San Diegans interested in joining the California Health Corps are encouraged to visit sandiego.gov/coronavirus.
 
For more information on the California “Stay At Home” order, including what’s closed, what’s open and which industries are exempted by the state, please visit COVID19.ca.gov. For information regarding COVID-19 cases and directives from County of San Diego public health officials, please visit coronavirus-sd.com. Text “COSD COVID19” to 468-311 for text alert updates.