FAQ
We want to be as transparent as possible. Here are some common questions and our best answers!
Why can't hospitals and health centers purchase the supplies directly?
Hospitals in the area were severely in debt prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. Now, the demands being put on their finances are more than they can handle alone. Many healthcare workers are being told that they will have few weeks of PPE available, then they will need to use makeshift protection, like bandanas instead of masks. There are many reasons why hospitals are not purchasing more PPE, included but not limited to, N95 mask cost between $3-6 (demand drives up cost) and limited staff to purchase supplies. We are a large cohort of displaced students that are persistent in finding companies able to produce and provide this essential equipment.
Why aren't companies donating them? Why do we have to buy them?
I agree, it would be amazing if companies were donating all of their inventory. However, the economy is failing and at the end of the day companies need to make a profit to survive. There are simply not enough masks being donated to overcome this virus. We have the power to help. Our ultimate goal is the get masks as quickly as possible to the hospitals.
Do 100% of the money raised go directly to purchasing PPEs?
Yes!
Venmo and Paypal do not charge a fee for the donations we collect. All money donated will go directly to providing PPE materials for our front line providers.
Venmo and Paypal do not charge a fee for the donations we collect. All money donated will go directly to providing PPE materials for our front line providers.
Why are N95 masks more expensive than KN95s?
Both N95 masks and KN95 masks are now FDA approved, however KN95s have a different filtration standard compared to N95 masks. N95s remain the gold standard for respirator masks but hospitals have began accepting both as needs evolve. Recently the FDA has released an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) expanding criteria for the use of KN95s that are FDA approved and meet CDC guidelines. More information can be found here.
We are diligently working with suppliers and making every effort to secure the appropriate PPE for hospitals in our area.
We are diligently working with suppliers and making every effort to secure the appropriate PPE for hospitals in our area.
Is Medical Students for Masks sponsored by an organization?
Medical Students for Masks ATL is NOT sponsored by a school, university, or organization. We are completely student run, funded, and operated. This initiative started from a group of concerned students wanting to contribute during this global pandemic.
Where are the supplies coming from, and how are we getting them to hospitals?
All PPE material is FDA approved and meets CDC guidelines. We are only purchasing from reputable sources. Our volunteers have a person of contact for each hospital that will be receiving donations. During our fundraising campaign, each hospital's person of contact provided us with a list of their immediate needs. Donations will be coordinated with each individual hospital for drop off, as each hospital has different policies on how to receive donations.
What are some other ways to get involved?
We are so inspired by people like YOU who are looking to help! Visit our Facebook Group for information regarding other amazing, student-run initiatives.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Monetary donations can be sent via Venmo or PayPal. Please see direct links and info on the HOME page or on our DONATE page.
2. We are also looking for:
- Masks
- N95 Masks
- Gowns: surgical and isolation gowns
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Face shields
- Tyvek coveralls
- Hand sanitizer + sanitizing wipes
Have physical items you want to donate? We have medical students able to pick up in the surrounding Atlanta areas and will coordinate with the hospitals for donations. Please fill out the following form and we will be in touch!! Click Here
3. In the Georgia area? Volunteer, ask us how to get involved!!
4. Looking to give in the Philly area? Our partners located in Pennsylvania have donated over 5,000 masks to hospitals in need! See their journey by clicking on the social media icon below:
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
1. Monetary donations can be sent via Venmo or PayPal. Please see direct links and info on the HOME page or on our DONATE page.
2. We are also looking for:
- Masks
- N95 Masks
- Gowns: surgical and isolation gowns
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Face shields
- Tyvek coveralls
- Hand sanitizer + sanitizing wipes
Have physical items you want to donate? We have medical students able to pick up in the surrounding Atlanta areas and will coordinate with the hospitals for donations. Please fill out the following form and we will be in touch!! Click Here
3. In the Georgia area? Volunteer, ask us how to get involved!!
4. Looking to give in the Philly area? Our partners located in Pennsylvania have donated over 5,000 masks to hospitals in need! See their journey by clicking on the social media icon below: