Author: Kailee Curtis

Emergency Preparedness

Public health emergencies can include epidemics and pandemics; biological, chemical, and radiological terrorism; and natural disasters. Being prepared to respond promptly, effectively, and efficiently to these public health emergencies is a key function of local health departments. Because many agencies would be involved in responding to such emergencies, building good partnerships with other community service providers is vital to emergency preparedness. Educating the public on self-preparedness and how to respond to a public health emergency is also key.

Key Positions
Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
Public Information Officer
Communicable Disease Nurse

Combined FTE: 1.25

Major public health emergencies BEDHD has responded to include responding to the statewide hepatitis A outbreak, and a home contaminated by mercury

Aligns with BEDHD Strategic Priorities:

Enhance involvement, engagement, and collaboration
Protect the community from potential health hazards

Meets Public Health Standards:

ü	Michigan Public Health Code
ü	MI Local Public Health Accreditation
ü	Public Health Accreditation Board

Funding Sources for BEDHD Emergency Preparedness:

Health Improvement Efforts:

	Barry Community Health Assessment & Community Health Improvement Plan
	Eaton Community Health Assessment & Community Health Improvement Plan

State Grants

Local Funding

Services:
Local health departments have emergency preparedness coordinators (EPCs) that are responsible for ensuring that health departments are prepared to respond to public health emergencies. They facilitate the exercising of plans, build partnerships with other emergency response entities, and educate the community on emergency preparedness.
Goals:
The goals for emergency preparedness include:
Preparing to respond to emergencies, through written work plans, exercises, and plan reviews
Educating the community on how to prepare for and react to emergencies
Developing and strengthening relationships with other emergency response partners, including state departments and local police and fire

Regional Medical Response Districts

BEDHD participates in two regional healthcare coalitions—Region 1 for Eaton County and Region 5 for Barry County. These coalitions comprise hospitals, emergency managers, public health, long-term care facilities, and other related groups that plan for emergencies involving health and medical response.

Impact:
In 2017, BEDHD’s emergency preparedness education efforts had a reach of at least 13,000 contacts through community meetings, presentations, resource/health fairs, and social media.

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