We can't wait for the next pandemic for a better PPE plan

Right now, Americans can purchase nearly limitless quantities of masks, hand sanitizer, and other personal protective equipment.

But this time last year, it was an entirely different story. Even hospitals and doctor’s offices were running out of PPE. The shortages almost certainly cost some healthcare workers their lives.

Covid-19 won’t be the last pandemic we face. We need to be much better prepared next time — with ample stockpiles of PPE ready to distribute to areas in need.

Last spring, the virus laid bare the vulnerabilities in our healthcare supply chains. Prior to Covid-19, China suppli...