It is shocking to learn that the number of intensive care unit beds in the country is only 1,245.The number of beds gets even lower if we count dedicated ICU beds that are actually equipped with ventilation facilities for the treatment of COVID-19 patients.
The ability of our healthcare system to absorb a shock — what experts call surge capacity — is much weaker than many believe. It needs no emphasising that we do not have enough ventilators and ICU beds to treat the soaring number of coronavirus patients.
Experts are of the opinion that inadequate intensive care facilities across the country remain a major concern in treating elderly COVID-19 patients who are deemed most vulnerable to the deadly virus.
The ability of our healthcare system to absorb
a shock — what experts call surge capacity — is
much weaker than many believe
Elderly people with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension are very vulnerable to coronavirus infection. If they get infected, a large portion of them will need intensive care and ventilation.
But there is a huge gap between demand and supply in terms of intensive care facilities. ICU management in the country is very poor. ICUs in private hospitals are not up to the mark for a lack of necessary equipment and skilled manpower.
Considering the situation, the government should take immediate measures to increase intensive care facilities across the country, and set up specialised hospitals with adequate beds to treat coronavirus patients. COVID-19 patients should be treated in designated hospitals, and ventilation and other facilities at the ICU should be there.