Responding to the latest PPE guidance published by Public Health England (PHE), Professor Andrew Elder, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, said:
“The provision of PPE remains an acute concern in some areas of the UK. Conversations with colleagues across the country continue to tell the same story – most places are provided adequately, but a few are not. We share the concern of other Colleges about the PPE re-use guidelines. The procurement and provision of adequate new supplies is clearly preferred to re-use of PPE items only intended for single use.
"The College, along with other professional medical groups, continues to lobby the UK Government as a matter of urgency to ensure that health and social care workers have the protection they need to stay safe and remain on the frontline, during the fight against COVID-19. We await specific comment from the Scottish Government on their approach to re-use.
"Several weeks ago, we called for transparency at UK national level regarding the stocks of PPE available, as well as an action plan indicating what PPE can be expected by primary, secondary and community care – and when healthcare workers in these sectors can expect to receive PPE. Provision in Scottish healthcare settings has been generally good but it is clear that concerns remain despite reassurances from the UK government. It is vital that stocks of PPE reach the frontline now to enable health and care professionals to continue their efforts in fighting the pandemic and saving lives.”
Public Health England published Considerations for acute personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages on 17 April 2020.
