Hello from the COVID-19 pandemic. Last fall, I thought that 2020 would be challenging for us due to the upcoming elections and the political polarization at state and federal levels. With the current viral threat to the health of our citizens and the safety of our nation, the politics still exist but have receded in visibility. The NYSSA has an experienced, and energetic team watching the events in Albany very carefully. I encourage you to contribute to the NYAPAC today, as the Legislature considers the details of the budget and new legislation, so your NYSSA team has the resources to publicize our perspectives on patient safety and equitable care. Many of you have already planned for the upcoming clinical challenge of widespread illness associated with COVID-19. Physician anesthesiologists have many clinical and administrative skills to share in their home institutions to help our society weather the coming storm. As you are aware, the actual impact of the viral pandemic on our capacity to provide critical care will depend on the maximum number of cases and their distribution across time. The viral pandemic is a significant disruptive stress on each of us as well as on our families and communities. Please find ways to rest physically and emotionally on a daily basis. It is likely that our contributions as physician anesthesiologists will be more a marathon than a sprint. If we are to sustain our roles, we must avoid burnout. Wishing each of you a healthy outcome from the current threat.

Richard N. Wissler, M.D., Ph.D., FASA
President, NYSSA