Why do healthcare workers need housing?
Unlike in many other countries, healthcare workers in the US do not live on hospital grounds or in subsidized hospital/university housing.
Many are trying to minimize the risk of bringing COVID-19 home to others in their household. Some clinicians are choosing to self-quarantine in hotels or other solitary situations that have the potential to have negative emotional and psychological consequences that will affect their ability to care for patients during this pandemic.
Providing housing is an investment in protecting clinical staff and their families. It will be critical to maintain an active workforce of skilled healthcare workers for the duration of the pandemic. The goal is to “flatten the curve” through social distancing and to prevent and/or delay the spread of COVID-19 within our community.
I'm a healthcare worker who tested positive for COVID-19. Can I still request housing?
Is there a fee for Healthcare Workers using housing?
I'd like to provide housing, what are some requirements?
- Cleanliness of the house is of great importance given risk exposure
- Self-check in should be established to maintain as little contact as possible
- It’s important to wait 72 hours between reservations to properly disinfect and turn over space (see Airbnb guidelines)
- Housing near a hospital (place of work)
- High speed WiFi
- Exercise capabilities and games/activities within living quarters are ideal but not required
- Provisions to cook oneself or to have food delivered, as well as laundry facilities are ideal but not required