It is standing room only each month as representatives of hospitals, state government, emergency medical services and other health care organizations meet in a crowded conference room in Cranston at the Hospital Association of Rhode Island. Together they form the Hospital Preparedness Planning Committee, a work group formed more than 10 years ago to better prepare hospitals for their role as first responders during an emergency. The importance of these early-morning meetings has been proven time and time again, but two recent events highlight the significance of this work to Rhode Island’s citizens.
Last fall Rhode Island, like every other state in our nation, was stricken with a pandemic. H1N1 was sickening a significant number of Rhode Islanders, and despite scientific guidance from federal and state government, much was still unknown about the overall impact the epidemic could have on our state.
Planning for an influenza pandemic had begun years prior and included dividing the state into 10 regions. Each region is led by an acute care hospital charged with building a coalition of representatives from municipalities, education, business, first responders and others to meet the unique needs of their community during a pandemic. Hospitals quickly embraced the role with which they were charged, and hundreds of meetings, planning sessions and conference calls ensued. In the end, each region developed a hospital-led plan that addresses a surge in patients seeking health care, employee absenteeism, vaccination and other issues that may arise and impact the community’s ability to withstand a pandemic.
When an H1N1 vaccine became available last year, hospitals were responsible for coordinating the immunization of health care workers and first responders. Dozens of clinics were held with hospitals and municipal partners vaccinating more than 32,000 individuals. Simultaneously, hospital professionals were caring for an increased number of patients exhibiting symptoms of influenza in their emergency departments. Data shows 20 percent of patients cared for in emergency departments last fall complained of flu-like symptoms.
This commitment was exhibited once again in March when the state experienced historic flooding. Hospitals successfully implemented emergency systems to manage disruptions in communication, facility damage, loss of electricity and the rerouting of emergency vehicles. There was also coordination with municipalities and shelters to ensure the health care needs of evacuees were met.
Hospitals and state government frequently collaborate in the public interest. Such actions are rarely visible, but produce coordinated services to benefit all Rhode Islanders. Dr. Gifford and his capable staff worked tirelessly to create such collaborations and coalitions.
The work of preparing for an emergency is never complete. There are always new technologies, resources and scenarios. In addition, new personnel and updated equipment call for ongoing drills and exercises to test the plans that have been put in place. The role of first responder is a responsibility hospitals take seriously. The monthly meetings will continue, and the room will continue to be crowded, as hospitals embrace this important position in our community. •
Edward J. Quinlan is the president of the Hospital Association of Rhode Island.
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