Public Health Emergency Preparedness is an important aspect of community health. Having the capacity to respond efficiently, effectively, and safely in a public health emergency can save lives and minimize the effects of a public health threat. A public health emergency can result from various hazards including natural disasters such as a hurricane, disease outbreaks, and deliberate acts such as aerosolized release of anthrax. In the event of a public health emergency, we receive guidance from the State of New Hampshire and Center for Disease Control and Prevention. We work closely with our regional leadership group, called the Regional Preparedness Coordinator Committee, which is comprised of municipalities, fire departments, first responders, police departments, hospitals, family service organizations, colleges/schools, and County government.
Interested in learning more about the Medical Reserve Corps?
Email us for more information at gscphn@hitchcock.org.
Establish Points of Dispensing (POD) sites for use in the event that there is a public health emergency resulting in the need for mass medication dispensing or mass vaccinations
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a dedicated group of volunteers in Greater Sullivan County who are activated to assist with activities such as the school-based flu clinics, emergency sheltering and PODS. The MRC can be activated at any time and train year-round to be prepared.
Establish and assist with the running of alternative care sites in the case that the current health care system is overwhelmed and needs assistance.
Conduct flu vaccine clinics at regional area schools for both students and staff. This service is provided free of charge and is conducted in coordination with the Upper Valley RPHN, Dartmouth Health, the MRC and community fire and EMS.
Assist community partners with becoming closed POD sites in order to help distribution of medication, vaccine or supplies to their community during a health care emergency.
Work closely with the American Red Cross and local municipalities to establish and staff emergency shelters including, warming and cooling shelters, emergency relocation shelters and overnight shelters.
Work with regional and state partners to plan, take part in, or run exercise and drills. These exercises mimic real life events and are meant to train volunteers while testing the capacity of the MRC and municipalities to respond to emergencies.
Distribute public health advisories and publicize information about health threats. This is done by acting as a conduit between the region and the NH Department of Health and Human Services.
Lead the multi-agency coordination entity that coordinates advisers and regional leaders during a regional public health emergency. Conduct quarterly meetings for communication and training to strengthen response plans.
Here are a few resources to help you get involved with emergency preparedness as a citizen of New Hampshire.
This federal site provides tips and information to help citizens better prepare for emergencies.
Learn more about Medical Reserve Corps initiatives and how to sign up to be a MRC volunteer.
Learn more about the mission and goals of the Medical Reserve Corps at the national level:
Sign up for NH Alerts to be better informed about evolving situations across the state!
