COVID-19 Task Force Calls for Protecting Most Vulnerable District Residents May 8, 2020

In its third meeting, the MSDC COVID-19 Task Force agreed that various vulnerable populations in the District need further support, and MSDC should be a leader in that area. 

The task force's goal is to discuss the larger medical and societal issues around the public health epidemic, and to make recommendations to the District government, MSDC Board, and federal government. 

During Thursday's meeting, the conversation focused on public information and advocacy. In particular, the task force discussed health equity issues. It made the following recommendations, among others, to the MSDC leadership:

• The District should ensure every Ward and vulnerable population center have easy access to a testing site
• MSDC should seek volunteers to assist with compassionate release programs in local prisons
• The District should put healthcare workers, including asymptomatic ones, into the highest testing priority category
• The District should encourage undocumented residents to be tested and treated for COVID-19 without fear of consequences

The task force will meet again on May 21. Anyone wishing to participate or submit issues for discussion can contact Robert Hay at hay [at]msdc.org.