More than one thousand contract healthcare workers will assist Mississippi's overburdened hospitals

Hospitals across Mississippi have requested federally funded assistance to provide patients with adequate standards of care. While there are beds empty in some hospitals, staffing shortages are limiting how many patients can be tended to at a given time. Stephen McCraney, Director of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency says four companies have been contracted to provide 1,046 healthcare workers who will be dispatched to hospitals that have requested aid.

McCraney says “That means about 994 hospital beds. That’s gonna relieve the pressure in 50 hospitals who’ve made requests, and as we work to the next 11 we’ll work those numbers in as well.”

Two field hospitals have been operating in Mississippi for around three weeks caring for COVID-19 patients. Governor Tate Reeves says he will not issue mandates to mitigate coronavirus transmission, and says the state is dealing with emergencies as they are identified. He says the incoming medical teams could arrive within the next few days.

“Getting boots on the ground this quickly is a step in the right direction,” says Reeves. “Having these staffing needs met will help to alleviate a portion of the strain on our healthcare system and ensure that all Mississippians that need care will receive the quality care they deserve.”

Officials say these contracts will cost around $10 million per week and will last 60 days with an option to extend.