Impact of multiple waves of COVID-19 on healthcare networks in the United States

The risk of overwhelming hospitals from multiple waves of COVID-19 is yet to be quantified. Here, we investigate the impact of different scenarios of releasing strong measures implemented around the U.S. on COVID-19 hospitalized cases and the risk of overwhelming the hospitals while considering resources at the county level. We show that multiple waves might cause an unprecedented impact on the hospitals if an increasing number of the population becomes susceptible and/or if the various protective measures are discontinued. Furthermore, we explore the ability of different mitigation strategies in providing considerable relief to hospitals. The results can help planners, policymakers, and state officials decide on additional resources required and when to return to normalcy.

Automated summary

The study suggests that multiple waves of COVID-19 could overwhelm hospitals, especially when population susceptibility increases or protective measures are discontinued. Additionally, different mitigation strategies can provide significant relief to hospitals, aiding decision-makers in determining when additional resources are needed and when normalcy can be restored.