Here's what I would have done, probably a few weeks ago.
We had the following predictive tools:
1) Math
2) The experiences of other countries
Here's what I would have done:
1) Mass media campaign, every night on TV with POTUS giving an overview, followed by a trusted expert explaining the details of what will happen, why it will happen, AND HOW THEY KNOW WHAT WILL HAPPEN.
2) Mobilization of the National Guard to be used mainly for food and medical supply deliveries to homes, and perhaps also the mobilization of all military branches to perform the same function (if this is legal...I'm not sure if it is).
3)Announcement of a very detailed plan to shut down the country on a specified date. Only medical facilities and other essential services to be allowed to work in the field. If feasible, working at home is entirely acceptable. Announce a planned end date (ie:1 month), assuming the projected curve is flattened to manageable levels.
4) Announcement of financial support packages to both businesses and individuals. Have a team of people set up and announce parameters as to amounts, and who gets the aid and how they get it. Goal is to prevent businesses from folding and to provide individuals with enough money to pay their routine monthly bills. This provides a predictable cash flow to businesses to which these monies are normally paid to on a routine basis.
5) Army Corps of Engineers. Make quick build, temporary facilities to treat only Corona. This enables hospitals to treat everything else...heart attacks, strokes, other emergencies. Temporary facilities should also be built to shelter and feed homeless individuals at this time, in an attempt to reduce their risks as well.
6) Shut down all non-essential businesses and services on the planned date. Reopen as closed to planned end date as possible.
I'm sure I'm missing a lot of things, but in general, these are my thoughts. This would be in an ideal world. Of course, these guidelines would be virtually impossible under the current administration. It would also require a mass diversion of funds, most likely from the defense budget. Perhaps also a wealth tax.
To simplify to it's most understandable level, if you know there is going to be a disaster, you have to jump on it well before it gets to that point. We have a dumb and slow administration, and an unacceptable health care financing system. These are other reasons why the above general ideas could never be done in this country.
The chickens have come home, and they are roosting. Dems have known for years. Republicans are about to find out.