CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — More medical personnel has been requested for the Coastal Bend to help with the shortage of nurses in the area.
The Department of Health and Human Services received a letter from Congressman Michael Cloud and Congressman Filemon Vela. The letter requested more oxygen, ventilators, personal protective equipment, and dialysis machines as well as additional facilities to enhance critical care and discharge capacity.
"We've received about 200 medical personnel from state and federal resources and we could use some more," Congressman Michael Cloud said.
When we talked with Cloud a week ago, he was working on preparing a request for a Naval Hospital ship to be assigned to South Texas.
His office tells us that after talking with local officials, the request has been put on hold for the time being. He said that's because the biggest need now is for more medical personnel.
Another new request involves a federal field hospital.
"We are asking for the consideration of an alternative care facility be put up in the district and for that to be staffed as well," Cloud said.
There is no timetable on when a response will be received.
For the latest updates on coronavirus in the Coastal Bend, click here.
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