The truth is, preparing to tackle the healthcare challenges of an impending flu surge is not a job for a committee, nor can it be begun during the emergency. A single point of coordination for flu response should be appointed within the federal government to establish a means for distributing critical supplies where they are needed.
The truth is, people need to be made aware that the flu will have an impact on the U.S. economy and an economic recovery plan to minimize the financial impact of a flu surge needs to be prepared now. Without such candor and advanced planning, the impact could be exacerbated.
The truth is, we don't know what is going on behind the scenes. If steps have already been taken, or if plans to undertake them have already been made, the American people need to be told the truth about the potential healthcare system vulnerabilities and how they will affect those who become sick. Similarly, we need to be told about the potential economic impact on all of us, and how we can take steps to minimize the economic impact.
Steve Brozak is president of WBB Securities, an independent broker-dealer and investment bank specializing in biotechnology, medical devices and pharmaceutical research. Dr. Larry Jindra is director of research for WBB Securities.