> we don't know that "the next one" will require ventilators
Good point. How about, "the next one that needs ventilators". Either way, it is a concrete example of equipment that we can now add to the list of things we need more of to be better prepared next time, or the time after that, etc. There are certainly many more things that should be on that list too.
Specific equipment that we can buy and stockpile is one thing, but manufacturing capability seems even more important to have within our borders so we can keep making N95 masks not subject to foreign interference, in the event of a sustained epidemic.
Good point. How about, "the next one that needs ventilators". Either way, it is a concrete example of equipment that we can now add to the list of things we need more of to be better prepared next time, or the time after that, etc. There are certainly many more things that should be on that list too.