Unable to implement the safety precautions used last year to slow the pandemic, Missoula’s hospitals are treating a wave of patients, though local officials remain unable to access state support.

“I did talk a little about National Guard resources, particularly for our hospitals” Engen said. “I was told folks are fighting fires or back to work, and the likelihood of those resources being available to hospitals were pretty slim.”

On Thursday, Missoula County reported 752 active cases of Covid-19 and 110 deaths. Last week, Providence St. Patrick’s Hospital CEO Joyce Dombrouski said the resurgence of Covid-19, fueled by the more virulent Delta variant, was stressing local hospitals.

Martin Kidston

Full Story

Billings Clinic records highest number of COVID-19 related hospitalizations since December

According to Zach Benoit, a public relations liaison at Billings Clinic, the hospital is also in talks with state government about the possibility of bringing in the National Guard for extra support.

Gov. Brad Little reactivating National Guard to help Idaho hospitals

New COVID surge stressing Montana health care systems

Malmstrom AFB begins implementing COVID vaccine mandate