By Iain Jaramillo, NMNG Public Affairs FARMINGTON, N.M. — New Mexico National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are lending their military and civilian expertise as doctors, physicians assistants and medics to expand the medical capacity of the San Juan Regional Medical Center and helping staff prepare for COVID-19 positive patients. “The goal here is to set up a 50-bed ‘hospital within a hospital,’” said Lt. Col. Fred Ginsburg, a doctor from the 150th Medical Group. “We’re taking material from FEMA and we’re setting it up inside of the hospital.” NMNG personnel are preparing and equipping rooms for patients “with the plan that local civilian medical groups would be able to staff it,” Ginsburg said. “It’s very interesting, especially as medics, to be able to be a part of this mission and help our community,” said Staff Sgt. Abbigail Gingerich, a medic from the 150th Medical group, “so it’s an honor and a privilege.” The medics are part of over 400 members of the NMNG who are currently working around the clock to flatten the curve and respond to the COVID-19 global pandemic. [gallery link="file" ids="4548,4549,4550,4551,4552,4553,4554,4555,4556,4558"]]]>
