FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                 

CONTACT: Anthony York (ayork@cmadocs.org)

SACRAMENTO – The California Medical Association (CMA) applauds Governor Gavin Newsom’s actions to address logistical burdens for physicians and health care workers across the state as they respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. On Thursday, Gov. Newsom announced that California would begin providing hotel vouchers to health care workers and to frontline providers to allow them to treat COVID-19 patients without risk of exposing their own families or loved ones.

“Gov. Newsom’s announcement on Thursday shows his administration’s thought and concern for physicians, nurses and other health care workers on the front lines of this pandemic,” said CMA President Peter N. Bretan, Jr., M.D. “We know that workers will need housing, mental health services and other supports as they help lead California through this crisis.”

Gov. Newsom’s announcement comes amid continued advocacy and efforts CMA is making to ensure health care workers on the front lines of the pandemic are supported as they treat COVID-19 patients. CMA’s wellness program (CMA Wellness) has launched a new initiative, Care 4 Caregivers Now, that is training volunteer physicians, nurses and other health care workers to serve as remote peer care coaches to assist those serving on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic by providing virtual emotional and professional support. The program is also looking at additional housing options and opportunities for health care workers who are exposed to COVID-19 patients.

To learn more about the California Health Corps or to sign up: covid19.ca.gov/healthcorps

To learn more about Care 4 Caregivers: cmadocs.org/care4caregivers

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