The healthcare system in the St. Louis region is facing a crisis. According to information from Presiding Commissioner Tim Brinker, hospitals are mere days away from being left with making the grave choice of who gets treated and who gets put on hold while in critical care need.

Brinker was made aware of this during conversations with St. Louis Regional health leaders and political leaders.

Brinker and other political leaders are now urging (but not requiring) that people wear masks in public, make conscious choices that help prevent the spread of COVID-19, stay home if sick and work from home if possible.

In addition, Brinker urges people to “help our elders stay safe!” although the county he leads was the home of the youngest victim in the state. COVID-19 is not just a danger to the aged.

Brinker concluded his plea with, “The virus is our enemy! This is war! Take personal responsibility Now!!!!!”

The head of the county also noted that Franklin County has now contracted with MAXIMUS Federal Services Inc. to provide additional contact tracing and case management. The contract will provide what Brinker calls “much needed relief to our already stressed Health Department.”

The services include 10 contact tracers, supervisory and operations personnel, data entry and five case managers at a cost of $363,993.