When it comes to COVID-19, physicians of all specialties are struggling to better understand, diagnose, treat, and limit the spread of the deadly disease. One thing that’s become crystal clear is that it’s vitally important for patients to #MaskUp to protect others from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Getting that message across to patients and families can be difficult. In addition to the communications challenge of explaining the evolving science on the efficacy of mask-wearing, there is resistance among some patients who have encountered disinformation among Facebook friends and in Twitter trends.

It is critical that physicians help patients understand their risks for transmission through clear and simple communication that is firmly rooted in science. The AMA is partnering with other leading health organizations to encourage people to mask up to stop the spread of COVID-19.

Five AMA members took time to discuss insights from their specialties that physicians of all stripes can apply to help spread the message to mask up.

My latest for the AMA. The whole shebang.