Calls for Federal Government to fund global study to prepare intensive care units for outbreak

Medical leaders from around the world have urged the Federal Government to fund a global study being led out of Brisbane that’s collating data on how intensive care units can prepare for COVID-19.

MEDICAL leaders from around the world have urged the Federal Government to fund a global study being led out of Brisbane that’s collating data on how intensive care units can prepare for COVID-19.

In an extraordinary letter, the leaders warn an “overwhelming burden” will be placed on hospitals but specifically on intensive care resources in the face of up to 80 per cent of the population potentially contracting the virus.

“Never before have we seen this disease, nor its magnitude,” the letter reads.

“We have no data on how best to care for our patients – specifically your parents.

“Without data, we are driving blindfold at 100kmh – with your relatives in the vehicle.”

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Doctor John Fraser. Picture: Bradley Cooper

The ECMOCARD study is currently collating data on ICU management of the sickest and most vulnerable patients from around the world.

The leaders consider it to be the equivalent of an “early warning system” that would help ICUs plan.

Brisbane-based intensive care specialist Professor John Fraser, who’s labelled the coronavirus as a “viral tornado”, is leading the study.

The letter, which is signed by almost 30 leaders, urges the Government to “align themselves with their medical leaders and take the leap”.

“Australian political leaders should stand shoulder to shoulder with their medical leaders – for the sake of us all,” it reads.

Health Minister Greg Hunt has been contacted for comment.