I am the AC that wrote: "So what are you suggesting?"
I'm pleased to see there is a genuine response and I'm surprised that you have two downvotes at the time of writing - neither are from me.
It seems quite reasonable to suggest that a volunteer corps could be established who could be trained in infection prevention and operation of a ventilator for just this kind of emergency. They don't have to be able to deal with severe cases or even how to insert the ventilator - just monitor that it's working correctly and monitor the patient's vitals. Enough to take the load off the regular doctors and nurses so they can concentrate on the severe cases.
Yes, integrating them into the NHS at other times - for training and practice working alongside each other - might be a challenge but not much different to the concept of special constables working alongside the police or the army having reservists.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
