Tim Fischer Jackson and Coker Kirby Bates Associates

Hope Amid COVID-19

 

Guest Post By Tim Fischer, President, Jackson & Coker Locum Tenens

Editor’s Note: Kirby Bates is dedicated to advancing Nursing Leadership and interprofessional collaboration. In honor of Doctor’s Day 2020 I’ve invited Tim Fischer, President of Jackson & Coker Locum Tenens, another Jackson Healthcare Company, to share his reflections. Working through the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis will take leadership and teamwork from all stakeholders who share our passion for excellence in compassionate and skillful patient care. Thank you for all you do!

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There’s a lot on my mind right now.

I’m thinking of how I can help keep my associates, friends and family safe. I’m thinking about how we at Jackson & Coker can best connect providers with the communities that need them.

personal protective equipment (ppe)
Nurse Practitioner wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).

I’m thinking about healthcare heroes like you who are transforming lives during the coronavirus outbreak.

  • People like Dr. F., a Psychiatrist on a locums assignment with us in New York right now, who is spending her one day off handing out toilet paper and water bottles on the street.
  • People like a Nurse Practitioner in a Critical Care unit who sent us a picture of himself in his PPE, saying that he doesn’t plan to stop helping patients while he still can.
  • People like the Emergency Medicine doctor who sent me a note as he serves coronavirus patients on the frontlines, telling me how he misses his wife back at home and will remain quarantined for quite some time.
  • People like the Infectious Disease doctor who has stepped up to help us provide telehealth coverage to eight facilities without pause.

A couple of days ago, we sent an email to our provider base, asking who would raise their hand and answer the call to care during this uncertain time. I was overwhelmed by the replies we got from hundreds of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and CRNAs who will take on the risk to help those in need.

In addition to the providers, we’re working with healthcare facilities across the country to get care where it’s needed. The hospital administrators we work with are nothing short of amazing in their resolve to help their communities. 

I’m also encouraged by recent legislation that will help providers connect with patients. This is an important time for telehealth. Medicare has removed rural and site limitations, enabling telehealth services regardless of where the enrollee is located. Many states are loosening restrictions on Medicaid face-to-face meetings when telehealth or telephonic consultations can be done instead. Private insurers are making telehealth more widely available.  Because of these developments, we know we can get more providers to work in telehealth positions. 

Keep up to date on the latest through the Center for Connected Health Policy. We’ve also put together a COVID-19 resources page where you can find help and information tailored to your needs.

It’s an interesting time, and I believe we have the opportunity now to create a better future. I’m inspired by the strength of our healthcare heroes. It gives me hope for tomorrow that we will get through this together. If your organization needs help – or if you just need someone to listen – reach out at connect@jacksoncoker.com or 800-272-2707. We’re here for you.

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