We Need Your Help! By Dr. Peter Rutherford and Dr. Malcolm Butler English Spanish

Dr. Peter Rutherford and Dr. Malcolm Butler issue a poignant call to action in their article, highlighting the precarious state of the healthcare system in Chelan and Douglas counties. They implore residents to stay home and wear masks when in the presence of individuals outside their households, reinforcing the need for community cooperation to combat COVID-19. The doctors express the emotional burden on healthcare workers, who are frequently overwhelmed and emotionally drained from the ongoing crisis.

They explain that the hospital's capacity is stretched thin, with staff being pulled from clinics to manage the influx of COVID-19 patients, leading to cancelled appointments and delayed care for other medical needs. This situation poses a significant risk; if safety measures are ignored, essential hospital services could be compromised during emergencies. Their appeal is not only a plea for compliance but also a reflection of their commitment to community health and safety. By invoking the concept of local control, they remind residents that their actions directly impact the healthcare system's ability to function effectively. Ultimately, the article serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to adhere to public health guidelines for the greater good.