Thread by @JSchuurMD

This weekend I caught up w/ 2 non-medical friends (social distance or phone) and they commented that I seemed frustrated. I think they are correct. As a HCW & leader of HCWs, I feel confident saying we have been happy to be on frontline. This is why we chose these fields.
BUT
1/

I understand the incredible hardship the business closures, stay-at-home orders and other rules have meant for millions of Americans. The economic hardship is terrible, and we must address it as a society.
2/

BUT It is maddening to watch politicians, some in media, & others (e.g. business "leaders") politicize what should be a unified national response based on science & community.
Many using demagoguery & lies to encourage people to ignore basic public health guidance, e.g. masks
2/

Watching Wisconsin Supreme court overturn a public health measure, as COVID cases ARE RISING means that state will face a tide of death and disease THAT WAS PREVENTABLE.
3/
newsweek.com/wisconsin-coro…

Similarly, In Texas, cases RISE and politicians encourage breaking of social distancing rules. This will mean many preventable sick and dead
4/
msn.com/en-us/news/us/…

In R.I. the response by our gov't and Governor has been measured and evidence-based. It is not perfect, but it is yielding results. We will open in a measured way as safely as possible.
But it will be for naught if disease rages on throughout U.S., as we can travel freely.
5/

Ultimately, vulnerable populations and essential workers on the front lines, including HCWs will bear the brunt of these dangerous policies and demagoguery. I worry for my colleagues in these states, and the vulnerable populations who are being needlessly put at risk.
6/

So please, Spare us HCWs the flyovers & hero worship...
Please do your job.
Wear a mask, wash your hands, and ask "what can I do to help our community control and eliminate COVID?"
The answers will come from public health professionals. Your job is to listen and implement.
7/

#WearAMask

that's it. that's the tweet.
8/

*"happy" not best descriptor. A combination of proud/accepting/nervous/resigned...is accurate. But overall, I think HCWs aren't frustrated that we have to care for COVID pts. We are upset that there wasn't a better response to #GetUsPPE and now seeing some gov'ts give up & worse.