Jesse Jacob, MD, develops COVID-19 care delivery plans at Emory University Hospital Midtown

As an epidemiologist at Emory University Hospital Midtown, Jesse Jacob, MD, plays a major role in patient care during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Jacob, associate professor in the Division of Infectious Diseases, works closely with the infection prevention team and many others across Emory Healthcare to develop processes for safe and effective care delivery.

In his role, Jacob determines when it is appropriate to test or re-test a patient who may carry COVID-19. He must decide factors such as the timing of testing and how to obtain the test, all while consulting nurses, physicians, and other staff on specific patient care plans. In addition, Jacob coordinates with surgeons and proceduralists before they perform high-risk procedures involving the airway, as well as those in relatively low-risk areas. His priority is to maintain high standards of care while keeping his team safe — a daunting task while the virus continues to spread and affect millions of patients in the United States.

Like many other health care providers, Jacob is faced with numerous challenges including changes in personal protective equipment availability and COVID-19 testing. He also says that the constant change in both local and national cases affects policies and procedures daily.

“Our healthcare heroes provide outstanding care in the face of constant change,” said Jacob. “This is a stressful time as they balance home and work. Words of encouragement, or any other type of recognition, are much appreciated.”

While Jacob continues to serve his patients during this challenging period, he is incredibly proud of his team and the collaboration across healthcare.

“I have the privilege of working with a fantastic, dedicated team of infection preventionists in the hospital, and collaborate with many staff and leaders including those in nursing and environmental services, among many others,” said Jacob. “My colleagues in hospital epidemiology and infectious diseases have been working tirelessly throughout the healthcare system and working together to take on the challenges as they come. Overall, we at Emory have done a wonderful job taking care of patients and each other.”