Massachusetts Prepared To Open Field Hospitals As COVID-19 Cases Rise

Governor Charlie Baker said the state of Massachusetts is prepared to once again begin using field hospitals as the number of COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations continue to rise.

Governor Baker said the state has yet to finalize any locations where new field hospitals would open, CBS Boston reports.

“Where and when these facilities are stood up will depend, in part, on available space and where the needs are,” Baker said via CBS Boston. “These field hospitals will be fully equipped with hospital beds, life-saving equipment, and medical supplies.”

Massachusetts had previously used several field hospitals at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, which included Worcester's DCU Center and the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

In June, Boston Hope released its final two of 700 patients treated for positive COVID-19 cases at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, CBS Boston reports.

Governor Baker said the facilities will be staffed "around the clock" with medical professionals to care for the COVID-19 patients. On Tuesday, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health reported a total of 618 total confirmed COVID patients currently hospitalized, including 150 in ICU.

The state had previously reported 588 people were hospitalized on Monday, including 143 in ICU, CBS Boston reports.