We are in a health crisis in this country. Heath care workers are at the front lines of caring for patients either diagnosed with or at risk for infection with the coronavirus (COVID-19). They must have access to personal protective equipment to keep them safe. This infection does not discriminate. For healthcare systems in this country to have a shortage of gloves, masks, and gowns is unthinkable. This puts all those who care for patients at undue risk to become infected with this virus.

We have companies in this country who produce personal protective equipment (PPE). Those in decision-making capacities, beginning at the federal level, should be exploring ways in which to increase/expand the capacities of these companies to produce more personal protective equipment. This is a time that we need to take urgent action, not wait until we have significant numbers of health care workers infected with this virus, putting their health at-risk and leading to a an exacerbation of a shortage that already exists in this country.