September 8, 2008
Press Release

Rhode Island Receives Nearly $1.8 Million for Hospital Preparedness Program

WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to help ensure that Rhode Island’s medical facilities and health care systems are prepared for natural disasters and public health emergencies, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) announced that the Rhode Island Department of Health will receive $1,793,799 in federal funding to strengthen its Hospital Preparedness Program.  The Hospital Preparedness Program enhances the ability of hospitals and healthcare systems to prepare for and respond to public health emergencies such as natural and man-made disasters, bioterrorism, and epidemics.

“This is a sound investment in Rhode Island’s safety.  I am pleased that the Rhode Island Department of Health will receive this federal funding to bolster its Hospital Preparedness Program,” said Reed, a member of the Appropriations subcommittee that oversees federal funding for Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) programs and a member of the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, which oversees federal policy for HHS.  “Our dedicated hospital workers and emergency responders are our first line of defense when disaster strikes.  This money will help bolster Rhode Island’s emergency response capabilities and ensure that health centers across the state are ready to effectively respond when we need them the most.”

Federal funding for the Hospital Preparedness Program will be used to integrate public health and public and private medical capabilities with other first responder systems.  The money will also be used to provide interoperable communications equipment and technical support to healthcare facilities; upgrade patient tracking systems; and enhance evacuation plans.

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