In early July, which state had intensive care units at 90% capacity?

The correct answer, Arizona, is significant in understanding the state's healthcare capacity challenges during periods of increased hospitalizations. In July, Arizona faced a surge in COVID-19 cases, which directly impacted the availability of healthcare resources. Intensive care units (ICUs) are critical for treating severe cases, and reaching 90% capacity indicates a strain on the healthcare system.

This high occupancy rate in Arizona's ICUs highlights the urgent need for resources, staff, and potentially additional measures to manage patient care effectively. The focus on Arizona reflects the broader challenges faced by some states during peaks in healthcare demands, especially in relation to the pandemic, where certain regions experienced higher rates of hospitalization than others.

Understanding these dynamics is essential for recognizing how public health responses are shaped by regional healthcare capacities, which can fluctuate based on the prevalence of diseases, population health, and healthcare infrastructure.