Arrangements for safety have been made for healthworkers in the facilities earmarked for coronavirus patients,and those dealing with suspected or confirmed cases providedwith Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), DevelopmentCommissioner S C Mohapatra said on Thursday.
"Currently, the state has 24 dedicated COVID-19hospitals. Eleven more will be up and running by April 20.Doctors, nurses are working for 15 days in a month and puttingup in an accommodation given to them. Their food and otherrequirements are taken care of...
"After having worked for 14 or 15 days, they undergoquarantine for the same period before resuming service,"Mohapatra said.
All healthcare service providers have been told not toreturn home or come in contact with their family members forthe time being, he maintained.
"Arrangements have been made for the hospital staff inhotels and hostels. Other facilities are also being set up forthem. These professionals have been given special training onhow to handle COVID-19 patients. They conduct mock-drillbefore starting work," he said.
Noting that Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had directedofficials to set up dedicated hospitals when just about one ortwo cases surfaced, Mohapatra said a total of 3,951 beds and293 ICU beds have been set up in the 24 COVID-19 facilities.
Some of these facilities have come up in a matter of20-25 days, he said.
"The dedicated hospitals will ensure that coronaviruspatients get focused treatment in a professional manner andmedical staff and other patients in general hospitals are notexposed to infection," Mohapatra said.
The state government had been bearing the expenses oftreatment, food and medicines of all confirmed and suspectedpatients, he added.
Odisha has reported 60 COVID-19 cases so far. AAMRMS RMS