Bioterrorism and Emergency Management

The 21st century began with the terrorist attacks of 9/11 and subsequent Anthrax incidents.  The potential of terrorism in all of its forms (biological, chemical, nuclear, and explosive) continues to threaten the US.  Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, as well as other natural disasters, have also highlighted the vulnerabilities of America's people and systems, as has the emerging threat of pandemic influenza and other serious diseases. 

Responding to concerns about these vulnerabilities and their impact on health care, national leaders have issued unprecedented legislation, guidance, and funding to states, directing them to ensure preparedness of health care systems.  Recognizing the important role(s) of Community Health Centers (CHCs) in Indiana's comprehensive emergency management structure, the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) has, since 2004, supported and partnered with the Indiana Primary Health Care Association (IPHCA) by providing federal funding and program guidance for CHC emergency management programs. 

Many published accounts indicate that most victims of both terrorist attacks and disasters will seek care at the closest and most familiar health care entity. Often, victims will converge on Health Centers, clinics or other non-hospital settings. CHCs can be prepared for this potentially overwhelming scenario by having an "all hazards" plan in place, ensuring readiness for any emergency. Preparedness is enhanced through CHC involvement in training and community / facility-based exercises, where potential responses are rehearsed and evaluated.

IPHCA supports Indiana's CHCs through numerous emergency management initiatives:

1. Assessing CHC capabilities and needs
2. Developing emergency plans, procedures, and guidelines
3. Representing CHCs on national, state, regional, and local public health and emergency planning forums, and serving as a voice for recognizing CHCs' unique capabilities and needs
4. Facilitating or providing emergency management education and training for CHC staff
5. Providing emergency management tools in the form of resources, procedures, and templates
6. Supporting CHCs in their integration into community emergency medical and public health plans, training, and exercises
7. Providing or facilitating acquisition of emergency management supplies / equipment
8. Keeping CHCs apprised of Federal, state, and other emergency management guidance, legislation, and expectations
9. Providing Technical Assistance (TA) as requested

Bioterrorism News
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Education and Training
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Plans and Templates
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References and Readings
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Avian Flu
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Resource Links
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