Even after monoclonal antibody treatments became available for use, physicians were forcing patients to remain home and untreated until such a time when hospitalization was absolutely necessary. While the protocol mystified many and is cited as a possible reason for many unnecessary COVID-19 related deaths, it ensured a manageable patient count and steady income stream for hospitals.
An action announced by Arizona Governor Dog Ducey on Wednesday just might change that paradigm.
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Ducey’s plan involves appropriating $60 million in federal virus relief funds to help Arizona hospitals, but only if they offer the monoclonal antibody treatments they previously denied the ill.
Monoclonal antibodies are designed to block the virus’ attachment and entry into human cells, and the treatment can be used for mild to moderate COVID-19 patients. When administered early enough, this treatment can dramatically decrease the patient’s risk of developing severe COVID symptoms. Expanding the use of monoclonal antibody treatment will help decrease the rate of hospitalizations and help alleviate pressure on hospitals and staff.
“Arizona’s health care professionals and all frontline workers are heroes, without a doubt,” said Ducey. “We are working to make sure they have the resources they need. This funding opportunity will decrease stress on existing hospital staff, increase hiring opportunities and decrease the risk of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Arizona. I’m grateful to all the nurses, doctors, first responders, frontline workers and everyone supporting and protecting our fellow Arizonans during this health emergency.”
Tucson Medical Center in January became the second treatment center nationwide solely focused on administering monoclonal antibodies to help patients avoid severe illness and hospitalization. The center’s temporary treatment program was successful, and according to a news report, “Since it opened earlier this month, the TMC center has infused 600 patients. None has had allergic reactions to the medication and anecdotally, about 1% have been admitted to the hospital, though actual outcome data is not yet available, said Mimi Coomler, the hospital’s chief operating officer.”
COVID-19 hospitalizations represent a significantly lower proportion of hospital patients than in previous waves due largely to the deployment of vaccinations among the most vulnerable populations, noted the governor.
Hospitals are seeing a higher numbers of patients than normal, and according to sources, staff members are leaving due to vaccine mandates at Banner Health and HonorHealth.
Ducey hopes the funding will help ensure that Arizona hospitals can obtain temporary staff to assist and alleviate stress on existing staff.