According to CBS 12 in Providence, hospital leaders at Southcoast Health say that the increase in COVID-19 across Massachusetts and the country is “critical.” Yesterday, the hospital system implemented stricter visitation policies in an effort to continue allowing visitors in a way that  keeps patients and staff safe. 

Chief Clinical Officer at Southcoast Health,doctor Dan Hackner, says staffing has been a large issue in the field as of late not only related to COVID-19 but in general across the Commonwealth. Hackner also says the amount of virus circulating in the community now is high, as many individuals are still being hospitalized hitting hospitals in the heart of those staffing challenges.  

The Herald News reports over 200 Southcoast health medical workers were fired last Tuesday for refusing to comply with a COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Hackner says in addition to seeking care at the right level, to get vaccinated for COVID-19.