Coronavirus lesson: US needs an act like Dodd-Frank for hospitals, health care providers

Heed lessons from Dodd-Frank, virus

During the 2008 financial crisis Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Act which required banks to maintain a certain level of liquidity.

With all the shortages during the current pandemic it seems our emergency management plans were woefully inadequate. We now have a real-life situation we can use as a “worst case scenario.” We need Dodd-Frank-type legislation for hospitals and other health care providers.

Local and state governments need to maintain a certain level of supplies and readiness, with the federal government providing backup. It is obvious that like the banks our health care providers have not “tended to their knitting.” When they fail, we all suffer.

Our very sad COVID-19 pandemic can serve as a valuable learning tool. Let’s not waste it.

Bob Burroughs, Charlotte

Conronavirus gun sales worry me

Regarding “Wake County now says gun stores can stay open during COVID-19 pandemic,“ (March 31):

In North Carolina many “nonessential” businesses are closed, but I can buy a gun. Is it essential to have a gun? I am worried that suicides, homicides, and domestic violence will increase during this hard time.

Grazia Walker, Charlotte

Adams’ attack was unnecessary

Regarding “Rep. Alma Adams blames Trump for slow coronavirus response,” (April 1):

U.S. Rep. Alma Adam should be doing more to encourage strength and morale among constituents, however we continue to see her political grandstanding. During this critical time for unity to conquer COVID-19, Adam attacks President Trump who is already under tremendous pressure. It’s unfortunate that some elected officials only serve members of the party to which they belong.

Frank Harrington, Charlotte

Hard for me to ‘get behind Trump’

Regarding “To Adams, others: Get behind Trump,” (April 3 Forum):

How do you “get behind Trump” when deep-down inside you know he lies to you almost every time he speaks? How do you get behind him when hundreds of people are dying each day and he comes on TV during virus briefings and brags about his ratings? The American people and media are supposed to hold our leaders accountable, not just blindly follow. Remember, all that evil needs to succeed is for good people to say nothing.

Thomas Abrams, Charlotte

Vote by mail may be the best option

As we plan the path forward through coronavirus, we must be conscious of the November elections. If we are still limited in the ability to get out, then vote-by-mail must be an option available to every eligible voter. The federal government needs to make this a priority, but North Carolina does too. There is no reason not to be prepared for this possibility. Unfortunately, Republicans are already objecting. This election is too important and voters need to be able to cast their ballots.

Chris Porier, Charlotte

Thoughtlessness of some is frustrating

So much for all my efforts at social distancing. Staying home, working from home, keeping distance from oncoming pedestrians, standing back from someone at the grocery store, etc.

I’m a road biker. I went out for a ride Thursday, giving a wide berth of at least 6 feet feet to pedestrians. Then, without warning some guy on the booty loop passed me almost touching my handle bars. Did he exhale blowing a plume of virus into my face? Had I just exhaled throwing virus infected droplets toward him (though I have no symptoms)?

I was angered and frustrated by the degree of thoughtlessness. Is it even safe to exercise outdoors in this age of COVID-19 and too rampant ignorance? It seems not - not unless everyone is more intentional and thoughtful about paying attention to the people around them.

Dr. Warren Steinmuller, Charlotte

Golf lends itself to social distancing

Regarding “Golfers, sacrifice and stay off the course,” (April 3 Forum):

Golf, by it’s very nature, lends itself to social distancing. Equipment or balls are not shared, normal common touch areas, such as ball washers and water coolers, have been removed. Clubhouse facilities are closed, food is take-out only, and my own experience is that golfers I see at the course are diligent in respecting the need for social distancing and hygiene.

Let’s keep some perspective here. I play golf or stay home and I feel about as safe from COVID-19 in either place.

Jack Hankins, Charlotte

This story was originally published April 3, 2020 at 3:53 PM.