CSUMB physician assistant students volunteer at alternate care site

MARINA, Calif. (KION) Students and staff with California State University, Monterey Bay's Master of Physician Assistant Program are volunteering to help set up an alternate care site at the Marina Airport, according to the university.

The site is being prepared to take in COVID-19 patients who do not need hospitalization, but have basic needs in preparation for a potential surge of patients at local hospitals.

"We are very proud of the physician assistant students and faculty who are dedicating their free time and weekends to collaborate with the leadership at Natividad Medical Center and the county, designing these alternate care facilities and filling the gaps where help is so desperately needed. It’s exciting to see everyone working together for a common goal," said Christopher Forest, MSPA program director.

Four hospitals are working together to establish the site along with Joby Aviation. The site is not open to the public.

Some of the roles students are taking on include supply coordination and logistics, volunteer outreach and public communication.