Washoe County is prepared for a surge of COVID-19 patients who cannot self-isolate.
If a homeless person living in the Downtown Reno Events Center develops COVID-19 symptoms or diagnosis, they lack the ability to self-isolate. Likewise, an infected individual living with an elderly or immune compromised person may struggle to find a safe place to wait out the sickness.
Adam Mayberry is a spokesperson for the Washoe County Incident Management Team. Should the number of patients exceed the 22 self-isolation beds available through a contract with medical insurance provider WellCare, he said the county has 60 trailers at its disposal.
“We currently have seven trailers in place operational today as we speak. We don't have any patients in them now. We expect that will change. But we currently have a total of 35 beds that are ready to accommodate should WellCare exceed its capacity and we need alternative housing,” Mayberry explained.
For individuals who cannot live independently and lack the ability to self-isolate, the county has contracted for 43 beds in 20 units of “supportive housing.” This includes three meals a day and support from a case manager and registered nurse.
Currently, two people diagnosed with COVID-19 are in the WellCare facility. Based on data from several models, Adam Mayberry said the county has prepared for the worst-case scenario.
KUNR Contributor Brian Bahouth is the founder and editor-in-chief of The Sierra Nevada Ally. To read the original story visit The Sierra Nevada Ally.