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About the series
As we approach the end of the year, there is still much uncertainty about COVID-19 and what the new year will bring. While I can’t predict what will happen in our third pandemic year, I want to offer a few reflections:
Employers and employees pivoted quickly to remote work – helping protect many. Employers also improved ventilation and implemented policies and processes to help improve safety for the many Americans who could not do their jobs from afar. They’ve also increased access to mental healthcare – as depression and anxiety and opioid deaths have all skyrocketed.
The demands of 2022 will continue to be great. Healthcare costs may increase due to pent-up demand or go lower because elective surgeries and care are delayed again due to overwhelmed health systems. Parents who are relieved that their children are finally back in school are worried that a new wave of infections could lead to more home schooling. People who are vaccinated are worried that their immunity might have waned, while those who are not vaccinated often feel their concerns have not been addressed.
Bonnie Henry, the provincial health officer in British Columbia, said in the spring of 2020 “ Now is the time to be kind, be calm and be safe.” These words still ring true as we approach 2022.
Jeff is an internal medicine physician and has led WTW’s clinical response to COVID-19 and other health-related topics. He has served in leadership roles in provider organizations and a health plan and is an Assistant Professor at Harvard Chan School of Public Health.