Medical professional shares his experience and advice with students

Being a physician, or any kind of healthcare worker, in the time of coronavirus is no joke. These heroes are busier than ever, most likely have a higher level of stress considering the constantly changing and unusual conditions. So, amidst all the madness, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to catch up with my uncle, Tim Peterson MD, an Emergency Medicine Physician and supervisor of emergency services in Juneau, Alaska to talk with him about his city’s situation and how he is managing in the COVID-19 world.

The Lamp: What is day-to-day life like now as a physician amidst the coronavirus pandemic?

Tim Peterson: It’s a very weird time because everything has changed so much. From everyone having to wear masks, gloves, gowns, etc…  all the time, it’s defiantly something different to get used to. I worry much more theses days, on the job, about our patients and staff.

TL: How bad is the coronavirus in Juneau?

TP: It’s not bad right now we have 5 people with COVID-19 in our hospital and because of this our ICU is not isolated like some other bigger hospitals. Meaning isolating parts of the ICU to COVID patients.  But we still have the PPE police as I like to call them who makes sure everyone has on their protective gear at all times.

TL: What is the hardest sacrifice you’ve had to make during these times?

TP: I would have to say the biggest sacrifice we make every day is not being able to hug each other. All of my coworkers are like family to me and I miss that interaction.

TL: Finally, what advice would you give to other doctors and healthcare workers and what advice would you give to the public?

TP: I would say to the public to be smart and get your advice about what to do from reliable science-based sources that you know you can trust with only the facts and from your local healthcare community of doctors, nurses and experts.  As a country, we should learn from places that got hit early and also learn and grow from their mistakes.