Coronavirus: ACP backs Biden COVID-19 plan

The American College of Physicians (ACP) says that it is supportive and encouraged by the American Rescue Plan announced by President-elect Joe R. Biden to slow the transmission of COVID-19, rapidly vaccinate, and address health inequities.

According to a news release, the organization is in favor of many of the recommendations put forth by the Biden team and made their own recommendations to the incoming administration including the development of an evidence-based science-focused response to the disease.

“ACP applauds the plans outlined by President‐elect Biden to address the critical needs of both patients and physicians,” Jacqueline W. Fincher, MD, MACP, president of ACP, says in the release. "On behalf of the internal medicine community we are ready, willing and able to help move our country past this unprecedented public health emergency through a multi‐step plan that addresses so many critical needs of our patients and our health care profession.”

Biden’s proposed Emergency Legislative Package, that calls for funding to increase COVID-19 vaccinations and financial relief for underserved communities, aligns closely with many of ACP’s policy recommendations including:

• Addressing the need to address racial inequities and health disparities
• Increasing funding for vaccinations, testing, and public health
• Addressing shortages of personal protective equipment
• Expanding paid family and medical leave