The County of San Luis Obispo says a group of trained volunteers is ready to staff an alternative care site at Cal Poly if hospitals were to reach capacity with COVID-19 patients.
While hospitals in the county are able to meet the current need, San Luis Obispo County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein says things can change quickly with this type of virus "so we're preparing now to provide care for more people if our hospitals reach their limits."
The County of SLO Medical Reserve Corps, which is made up of trained volunteers who assist public health efforts during times of special need or disaster, would staff the Cal Poly Recreation Center should the need arise.
"We're acting with the expertise and service of medical specialists, engineers, and emergency logistics teams," said County Administrative Officer and Emergency Services Director Wade Horton in a press release. "The space at Cal Poly is well-equipped and if needed will provide safe and quality care."
People who exhibit symptoms of the virus, which include fever, cough and shortness of breath, are encouraged to stay home and call their health care provider or urgent care clinic. Before heading out to receive medical care, residents are asked to call in advance to receive safe arrival instructions, if directed to do so.
For more information on the Medical Reserve Corps, which is currently recruiting, click here.
For updates on COVID-19 in San Luis Obispo County, click here or call the recorded Public Health Information Line at (805) 788-2903.
There are now 33 positive cases of the virus in San Luis Obispo County.
Related: Paso Robles Event Center, Cal Poly dorms could be used as hospitalization site for COVID-19 patients