RCP president, Professor Andrew Goddard responds to Public Health England's (PHE) review of disparities in risks of COVID-19.
Professor Andrew Goddard, president of the RCP said:
'PHE’s report provides more disturbing evidence that the impacts of COVID-19 are being disproportionately felt by some parts of the population, particularly those from BAME backgrounds. It has also impacted heavily on those in the later stages of their lives and those who live in deprived areas, and it is more of a risk to men than to women.
'This is a compelling example of how COVID-19 is impacting pre-existing health inequalities at a time when action to close the gap was already urgently needed.
'It is vital that this important report shapes our response to COVID-19. Both the public and health professionals will be expecting this Government to ensure the findings inform future policy decisions as we seek to reduce the risk to those most vulnerable.
'I know these findings will cause particular concern among my colleagues in the NHS and social care who are at increased risk from COVID-19. It is vital that employers are listening to staff, understanding their concerns and undertaking risk assessments.
'There is no reason why all NHS employers should not have undertaken an initial risk assessment for those staff most at risk within the next two weeks.'
Read PHE's full review here.
