There’s been more than 1.
3 million confirmed cases of the virus in the US, with more than 79,000 deaths. New York City alone has more than 184,000 cases, with healthcare workers rallying together daily to tackle the outbreak.
The NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst from Queens already serves around one million people yearly, but those numbers are surging under current circumstances. Fortunately, their hard work won’t be unrewarded.
To recognize the ‘extraordinary care’ of the 4,000-strong team of doctors, physician assistants, nurses and food service teams, American Airlines and Hyatt Hotels Corporation have teamed up to provide ‘three-night complimentary vacations to help them recharge and reconnect with their loved ones’.
The Vice President of NYC Health + Hospitals, Israel Rocha, said in a statement:
“Our doctors, nurses, and other staff on the front lines of this unprecedented health care crisis really appreciate the outpouring of support from two of America’s major companies, and we look forward to taking advantage of these well-earned vacations in the near future.”
The hospital is one of the hardest-hit across New York, with Intensive Care Units (ICU) capacity scaled up by 500% to help the patients.
The ‘honoured guests’ will be treated to round-trip holidays via priority airfare to select destinations across the Caribbean and US, once it is deemed safe to do so.
Mark Hoplamazian, President and CEO of Hyatt, said the company felt it was its turn to take care of healthcare workers ‘like members of our own family’.
‘‘We are humbled by the health care workers’ dedication to saving lives… we look forward to making their stays special when they are able to take a hard-earned break.’’ He said.
Robert Isom, President of American Airlines, also said in a statement:
“Every worker at Elmhurst has seen and experienced challenges many of us cannot imagine. They’ve given so much of themselves and chose to serve their community with care, compassion and equity for every patient.
When they are able to take a break, we hope the time away will help them and their loved ones recharge and that they feel our deepest appreciation for their sacrifice and heroism,” Isom said.
Holidays are one of several ways both companies are striving to help amid the pandemic. American Airlines has raised more than $3 million for the American Red Cross while Hyatt Hotels have been donating meals to local communities and food banks.