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Los Angeles County Medical Association Launches Rapid Response Plan to Support Medical Providers, Patients, Communities During COVID-19 Pandemic

$100,000 Commitment to acquire PPEs, Call for Increased Social Distancing, Communications Plan Key Components

March 16, 2020, Los Angeles, CA ‐‐ The Los Angeles County Medical Association (LACMA) is committing up to $100,000 towards helping physician practices acquire personal protective equipment (PPE), testing kits and supplies to address the COVID 19 pandemic.

“At this critical time in history, it is paramount that LACMA, the leading organization representing physicians in Los Angeles County, takes meaningful steps to support those caring for patients. At the same time, our entire membership of more than 7,000 physicians, students, residents, and retirees support the LA Department of Public Health’s efforts to assess and address this pandemic, “ said Sion Roy, MD, President of LACMA. “We are working with PPE supply vendors to off‐set the cost for medical practices and launching a process for local practices to access funds during this crisis as well,” Roy added.

LACMA’s COVID 19 Five Point Rapid Response Plan provides financial support for medical practices, amplifies essential information distributed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and California Medical Association (CMA), supports community based organizations as they deliver supplies to those at risk and applaud our local Congressional delegation for their efforts to secure FEMA funding. Finally, LACMA implores cities to consider implementing temporary closures of all bars, nightclubs, and restaurants except for takeout and delivery.

LACMA is an organization of dedicated physicians who advocate quality healthcare for all patients and serve the professional needs of its members. The group serves to represent its professional members in public policy, government relations, and community relations. The organization was founded in 1871 and is a constituent of the California Medical Association (CMA). LACMA, together with CMA physicians, strives to preserve and protect the noble pursuit of healthcare delivery.

 

LACMAs COVID 19 Five Point Rapid Response Plan

  • Provide up to $100,000 in funds for medical practices to acquire PPEs
    Specifics: Create a link and form on www.ladocs.org for providers to submit a request. LACMA is also working with vendors to identify a more streamlined and efficient approach that allows providers to acquire supplies at no cost or reduced cost.

  • Amplify Los Angeles County Health Alert Network (LAHAN) http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/lahan/ and provide essential information distributed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Centers for Disease Control and California Medical Association (CMA).

  • Support community‐based organizations such as Meals on Wheels as they deliver supplies to those at risk.

  • Applaud policymakers for fighting for FEMA funding and expedited access to much needed medical supplies and testing kits.

  • Continue to support the implementation of temporary closures of all bars, nightclubs, and restaurants except for takeout and delivery. Given the increased advisements against public gatherings, we believe it is in the best interest of our community to close such establishments to limit the spread temporarily.