An eight-person physician workgroup led by retired spine surgeon David Hanscom, MD, is advocating for a new approach to treating COVID-19 patients.
In an effort to improve outcomes, Dr. Hanscom outlined a structure whereby the many variables of the virus are systematically addressed. The approach, published in SciMedicine Journal, is intended to be used as a foundation for designing clinical trials.
"With the crushing workload, it's a challenge to get physicians' attention and consider a different approach," Dr. Hanscom said.
More research is needed around the dosing and timing of treating COVID-19 patients, according to Dr. Hanscom, as most of the treatments available are "medically proven with minimal or no risk."
The workgroup highlighted several protocols, including optimizing the body's defenses with nutrition, vitamins, sleep and exercise; using the body's own resources by engaging the nervous system to counteract elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines; and then using pharmacological interventions, beginning with minimal risk medications.
Click here to read more on the approach to treating COVID-19 patients.