Today on Colorado Edition: We learn how rural hospitals are preparing for a surge of COVID-19 cases, and we take a look at businesses considered essential under the statewide stay-at-home order. We also hear from healthcare workers in the Roaring Fork Valley who are on the frontlines and we explore how school districts in Northern Colorado are handling the transition to online learning.
Firearm Stores Considered Essential Under Governor’s Directive
Last week, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis announced a stay-at-home order in the state, which includes the closure of all non-essential businesses. Included in the list of essential business that will stay open are firearm stores. But why are firearm stores considered essential? KUNC’s Leigh Paterson joined us to explain.
Rural Hospitals Prepare For COVID-19 Cases
The coronavirus is bearing down hard on hospitals in Colorado. Many are facing underfunding, understaffing and lacking resources like protective equipment and ventilators. KUNC’s Adam Rayes checked in with a few hospitals around the state where there haven’t been many cases – yet.
Roaring Fork Valley Hospitals Pool Resources And Care
Hospitals in the Roaring Fork Valley in the western part of our state are facing similar issues. Aspen Public Radio’s Alex Hager spoke with doctors there about what it’s like to be on the frontlines.
Mental Health Care Has Joined The Call
Healthcare facilities and practitioners around our state are transitioning to tele-health, in efforts to keep people home, and to limit possible exposure to COVID-19. And, that includes mental health professionals. Jennifer Brown is a reporter with the Colorado Sun and has been reporting on remote mental health care. She joined us to tell us more about the switch to online care.
How Poudre School District Is Transitioning To Online Learning
It’s not only therapists who are moving to tele-work. Schools around the state are transitioning to online learning. Colorado’s K-12 schools are closed until April 17. As school districts return from spring break, students and teachers are now moving to online learning. Last week, KUNC’s Stephanie Daniel talked to Madeline Noblett, a spokesperson with the Poudre School District in Larimer County, to learn more about their transition.
Colorado Edition is made possible with support from our KUNC members. Thank you!
Our theme music was composed by Colorado musicians Briana Harris and Johnny Burroughs. Other music in the show by Blue Dot Sessions:
- “Curious Case” by The Cabinetmaker
- "Waltz for Zacaria" by Cholate
Colorado Edition is hosted by Erin O'Toole (@ErinOtoole1) and Henry Zimmerman (@HWZimmerman), and produced by Lily Tyson. The web was edited by digital editor Jackie Hai. Managing editor Brian Larson contributed to this episode.
KUNC's Colorado Edition is a news magazine taking an in-depth look at the issues and culture of Northern Colorado. It's available on our website, as well as on iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can hear the show on KUNC's air, Monday through Thursday at 6:30 p.m.