Last March, just as the pandemic was ramping up in Massachusetts, Louisa dialed 9-1-1. Her husband Michael was suffering from an acute infection and needed urgent medical attention.

The COVID-19 pandemic has upended nearly every aspect of day-to-day life. Birthday parties have been postponed, classrooms have been moved to living rooms, and graduation ceremonies are being held virtually. Everyone knows these social distancing measures are for the greater good, and it’s important...