Uniting to Protect our Health Care Workers

Just three weeks ago, the AHA launched the 100 Million Mask Challenge, to put the right tools into the hands of our health care workers on the frontline of COVID-19. Originally launched by Providence, in Washington state, the Challenge now calls on manufacturers, the business community and individuals across the country to coordinate their efforts to rapidly produce personal protective equipment on the large scale needed by our nation’s caregivers.

Since scaling this initiative nationwide, tens of thousands of visitors have checked out AHA’s expanded website, many of which have been manufacturers downloading the specs to make masks, face shields and gowns, or hospitals seeking the latest guidance on hand sanitizers and best practices from around the field for PPE decontamination.

I’ve been so inspired by those that have stepped up and joined forces to ensure our front-line health care workers have the PPE they need. For example, in Idaho, Boise State University is using its 3D printer to assemble face shields for local hospitals.

Schools in Oklahoma City have donated surplus medical supplies, like hand sanitizer, masks and disinfecting wipes to nursing homes and hospitals. Cycling manufacturers and a number of clothing retailers also are producing PPE to protect our health care workforce. We recently even received a $100,000 contribution from the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum due to strong sales of their new Dr. Anthony Fauci bobblehead.

As AHA continues to grow this challenge, we are excited to announce that we have partnered with Microsoft, Kaiser Permanente, consulting firm Kearney, Merit Solutions, and UPS to launch Protecting People Everywhere, powered by HealthEquip™. This smart app will match individuals and organizations donating PPE with local hospitals based on needs-criteria – providing another critical link to PPE. Hospitals and donors can register directly at www.health-equip.com/. 

When Americans unite behind a goal, we are an unstoppable force that has landed humans on the moon and eradicated fearsome diseases like polio. COVID-19 will be overcome as well, but we are not there yet. 

The 100 Million Mask Challenge is asking every person and organization who can help supply our caregivers with the protection they deserve to step up and raise your hand. We can all do something, and the Challenge can help direct you to what that is.

If you want more information, please email 100millionmasks@aha.org.