Research
Interview Synopsis

COVID-19 – US Preparedness & Response

  • Multi Asset
  • Healthcare
  • North America

As COVID-19 tightens its grip across the world, Third Bridge Forum spoke to a former director at the Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to get a sense of how the situation is unfolding in the US.

COVID-19: The US’s approach so far

Broadly speaking, the Interview looked at how COVID-19 is spreading in the US, the country’s response and preparedness, and public health measures and challenges in treatment and containment. 

The expert started the Interview by saying the US’s initial lack of urgency — including delaying testing — has meant it is now difficult to fully understand how the situation is evolving there. 

“You need to test to get a sense of what’s going on in the community, where disease is and where you need to focus your public health measures to try to stop that degree of community transmission,” he said, adding that data is the lifeblood of public health.  

The Interview also looked at the potential attack rates of COVID-19 and how the scenario may play out based on whether it is a zoonotic (animal-borne) or human virus. 

The issue of the “just in time” healthcare model in the US was also discussed, revealing that hospitals often have supplies for just one month, and reinforcing that data is key to understanding supply chains. 

The expert also shed some light on how investors should interpret the situation, noting that “this is not a pandemic as much as it is an epidemic in […] different countries that have their own dynamics”.

In addition, the Interview considered the economic cost of testing and patient care, as well as how serious the situation would have to become to stretch the US healthcare system in the same way it is currently under pressure in Italy.  

Among his final remarks, the specialist offered his outlook for the next two to three months, including what information to look out for to stay abreast of key developments and what further restrictions might look like.

To access all the human insights from Third Bridge Forum’s COVID-19 – US Preparedness & Response Interview, click here to view the full transcript.

The information used in compiling this document has been obtained by Third Bridge from experts participating in Forum Interviews. Third Bridge does not warrant the accuracy of the information and has not independently verified it. It should not be regarded as a trade recommendation or form the basis of any investment decision.

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