Today on Colorado Edition: we’ll bring you updates on the spread of COVID-19 in Colorado, and the state’s response to it. We’ll also hear a firsthand account of what it’s like to work in a rural hospital during an outbreak. Plus, how artists are teaming up to help one another during this time of coronavirus-related cancellations. And, we’ll ride aboard a mobile health unit.
Resources For Fighting COVID-19 In Colorado
Over the course of two very long weeks, Colorado has become mired in the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. It’s not yet clear exactly how the state will be impacted. What is becoming clearer is that resources are limited.
KUNC’s Michael de Yoanna has been following these issues, and he told us about the state’s strategies.
A Doctor Reflects On Coronavirus Preparedness
As the coronavirus spreads, doctors, nurses and first responders across the country are sounding the alarm about overwhelmed healthcare facilities and the lack of supplies.
KUNC’s Leigh Paterson recently spoke to a rural ER physician, Dr. Jane Jenab, who is currently working in two hospitals: one in western Colorado and one in North Dakota. She is one of a growing body of medical professionals sounding the alarm. We listen in to Leigh’s conversation with Dr. Jenab.
Shelter In Place Order In San Miguel County
We’re going to turn now to San Miguel County, in southwest Colorado. Wednesday night, county officials ordered residents to shelter in place until at least April 3. In the coming weeks, the county will be working with a private company to administer tests to all residents.
KUNC’s Scott Franz called Julia Caulfield, the news director for KOTO public radio in downtown Telluride, to talk about the measures being taken in southwest Colorado.
Mobile Health Units
The Colorado Office of Behavioral Health recently unveiled new Mobile Health Units. The 34-foot Winnebago coach RVs are small but contain all the necessary equipment and resources to treat opioid use disorder. As KUNC’s Stephanie Daniel reports, they were created to serve some of the communities hardest hit by the opioid epidemic.
Artists Band Together During Coronavirus Cancelations
With the need for social distancing, most events are being canceled for the foreseeable future and artists ranging from musicians to dancers are losing jobs. That has some looking for creative ways to make ends meet. We talked with KUNC arts reporter Stacy Nick about how they’re making it work.
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.
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.