The Nebraska Legislature on Wednesday approved Gov. Ricketts’ proposal to provide $58.6 million of emergency funding to support the state’s efforts to combat COVID-19.
Of that amount, $3.5 million will be directed to UNMC to augment increased testing for individuals potentially infected with COVID-19.
“We at UNMC are very appreciative to Gov. Ricketts and to our state lawmakers for this emergency funding. It goes without saying it will be put to the best possible use,” Chancellor Jeffrey P. Gold, M.D., said. “Increased testing helps Nebraska get a better picture of the spread of this disease, to improve our preparedness and response — including whether individual health care workers are to stay at home or are safe to return to the front lines. These funds will also help our state coordinate response and reuse precious personal protective equipment, thanks to a UNMC research innovation. This is why we are here. We are proud to stand with you in this historic fight.”
University of Nebraska President Ted Carter said he appreciates Gov. Ricketts “leadership in seeking the support necessary for our state to address COVID-19.
“Our world-leading health care professionals at UNMC and across the state are working around the clock to keep Nebraskans safe, and this additional funding will significantly aid their efforts,” Carter said. “I thank members of the legislature for moving quickly to make this critical investment in the health and safety of the people of Nebraska.”
The funding for UNMC falls into four areas. They are:
Lab Testing: $515,000
- This would augment the cost of the reagents, laboratory personnel and equipment to conduct COVID-19 lab testing for the state. This would include funds to purchase a combined sample extraction/detection robot for efficient and accurate serial processing of specimens, reducing staffing needs. This would be to support increased efficiency and capacity of statewide testing through the Nebraska Public Health Laboratory.
Lab Equipment, Software Programming, and Personnel: $2,500,000
- The equipment includes higher throughput automated equipment for microbiology and molecular diagnostics. The increased testing throughput will be implemented on a fast track within the next two to four weeks but would support a prolonged outbreak, as well as help prepare for future outbreaks. All funds would be dedicated to support statewide needs.
UV Light Boxes: $100,000
- The UV light boxes would provide tertiary cleaning of N95 respirators for reuse by health care workers. UV units and light meters, which measure device effectiveness, will be distribution to four hub hospitals across the state.
Knowledge Center: $343,900
- This system is used by coalitions and all stakeholders across the state to establish an interoperable platform for communication, bed tracking, resource sharing and an overall interoperable platform.