Since the beginning of the HRSA/NBHPP cooperative grant process in 2002, Region 3 has progressed significantly in its goal of regionalization of pre-hospital and hospital coordination of assets. All of the 22 hospitals have achieved a base level of supplies and equipment for disaster response. These including decon tents and associated equipment, isolation capacity for at least one infectious disease patient, inter-operative radio communication using the MPSCS 800 MHz system, training of key staff in NIMS, Decon procedures, communication, etc. The Region has placed 5 fully equipped Acute Care Center (ACC) trailers at selected hospitals throughout the region. Pre-hospital agencies have also reached an unprecedented level of coordination and material preparation. Working through the MCA’s, EMS providers have received PPE equipment, 800 MHz radios, and training in triage, decon, PPE and other skills. 3 Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) trailers have been placed at selected MCA’s spread strategically throughout the Region. The Region is in the process of a pilot program of a Patient Tracking system for use in disasters. The Region has purchased antibiotics for prophylaxis against Class A agents for all hospital, EM, EMS, and LPH personnel and their families. We also host and maintain 2 MEDDRUN packs in the region as well as 4 CDC-sponsored CHEMPACKs.
Current projects include improvement of inter-operative communications, PanFlu planning, patient evacuation, mass fatality planning, supply stockpiling and training.
Region 3 is also working very closely with our colleagues in Emergency Management and Public Health. We are collaborating with these other key players to promote a unified approach to emergency and disaster ALL HAZARDS response.
