These are truly unprecedented times we live in, but Scotland is fighting back against the coronavirus.
I am glad to hear we are set to double our intensive care unit capacity and to free up some 3,000 beds across hospitals in Scotland.
By the end of last week, Scotland’s NHS will have trebled its ventilator capacity to more than 560.
The NHS is further expanding its ICU and ventilator capacity, too, to deal with increasing numbers infected with Covid-19.
We should all very much welcome this new temporary hospital being established at the SEC in Glasgow (pictured).
Named NHS Louisa Jordan, the chief executive will be Jill Young, who is a former boss of the Golden Jubilee Hospital in Clydebank.
I know Jill very well and know the hospital is in safe hands.
It will begin with a capacity of 300 beds, with a view to expanding to 1,000 patients if needed.
Read more: OPINION Gil Paterson MSP: We must respect Scotland’s decision
Patients with symptoms of the coronavirus can contact special Community Hubs and Assessment Centres via NHS 24, on 111.
This makes a clear nationwide clinical pathway for people who may be infected and needing help.
This is one of the almost under reported initiatives in Scotland, this set up of 50 hubs throughout the country.
Financial resources have been freed up to ensure GPs will be available over the Easter weekend.
Distribution of protective gear to the NHS has been increased, in an impressive logistical operation to supply hospitals, doctors’ surgeries, ambulance services, social care facilities and more with masks and other equipment.
In the next few weeks, we can expect to increase the number of NHS workers who will benefit from testing centres, one in Glasgow.
Currently, we have the capacity to test 1,900 a day, which will increase to around 3,400 by the end of April.
As capacity expands, so will the number of key workers being tested.
To battle the virus, a new recruitment portal for those with relevant skills to come forward has been created on the NHS Careers to bring in staff who may be retired, returning or students.
I am glad to see all parking charges have been removed from Glasgow Royal Infirmary, and others around PFI car parks in Scotland.
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