CCHN has received emergency preparedness funding through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) since 2007 from either the Center for Disease Control (CDC) or the Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP). CCHN has supported FQHCs with emergency preparedness technical assistance, equipment, training planning, exercises, communication, and disaster-coordination. As a result, all of the FQHCs have Emergency Management Plans; are connected with the local public health agencies; work regularly with their Health Care Coalitions when possible (not all jurisdictions in Colorado have Health Care Coalitions); have a basic understanding of Incident Command System (ICS) and National Incident Management System (NIMS); and have been able to purchase vital equipment to support a disaster response.
Achievements resulting from the funds provided for the emergency preparedness program in 2010-2011 include:
CCHN developed and delivered a TTX to 50 members of the Peak Vista Community Health Center’s (PVCHC) management team. Representatives from CDPHE, the county Office of Emergency Management, local public health agencies, and the local volunteer fire department participated as facilitators and evaluators. As a result of the exercise, PVCHC staff members have been asked to attend the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) meetings and are working with the county to organize a local Healthcare Coalition.
Radios have been distributed to 100% of the FQHC Administration Offices and 48% of the clinics. The radios are tested regularly.
- Activation of Clinic Emergency Management Plans (EMP)
The High Plains Community Health Center in Lamar implemented their EMP when the minus 40 degree wind-chill caused fire sprinkler pipes in the ceiling to burst. Clinica Family Health Services, Inc. used their EMP to evacuate a Boulder clinic because of an approaching wildfire. Two other FQHCs activated plans for power outages. Each of the FQHCs prepared after-action reports and updated their EMPs.
- Generators and Backup Batteries
Two FQHCs have been able to avoid the loss of vaccine, medications, electronic records, essential information and equipment because of backup equipment provided through the HPP funding.
- Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs)
Valley-Wide Health Systems, Inc. was able to purchase AEDs for use at an alternative care site that would be set up in Alamosa County during a disaster. Uncompahgre Medical Center was able to purchase a medical crash cart to replace the automotive toolbox that they had been using which will also be used at an alternative care site if needed.
- FQHC Emergency Preparedness Meetings
Emergency preparedness staff members from around the state were able to meet counterparts for a second year in a row at three regional meetings. The meetings were a hands-on opportunity to work on EMPs, share information with colleagues and work on developing TTX specific for each FQHC.
For more Colorado specific emergency planning resources please visit:
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