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Rural Health Information Hub

Rural Health
Resources by Topic: Emergency preparedness and response

Supporting Puerto Rico's Disaster Recovery Planning
Examines the conditions in Puerto Rico before and after Hurricanes Maria and Irma in 2017. Presents a cross-sectional analysis of the disaster in rural and urban areas. Explores the state of healthcare, infrastructure, economy, ecology, and communication in Puerto Rico and discusses plans for recovery.
Date: 09/2020
Sponsoring organization: RAND Corporation
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Health and Social Services in Puerto Rico Before and After Hurricane Maria
Report details the conditions of health and social services in Puerto Rico before and after Hurricane Maria. Discusses the challenges faced in providing healthcare and social services across the island before the hurricane, the effect of the hurricane on services and infrastructure, and potential plans for recovery. Highlights the specific challenges faced by rural communities with regards to access.
Date: 09/2020
Sponsoring organization: RAND Corporation
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An Evaluation of FirstNet's Progress
Presents a recording of a September 24, 2020, hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Examines FirstNet and AT&T's progress on developing a nationwide public safety broadband network. Testimony from Jason Porter, Senior Vice President of AT&T, discusses FirstNet's focus on rural America.
Additional links: Jason Porter Testimony
Date: 09/2020
Sponsoring organization: U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
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COVID-19: Federal Efforts Could Be Strengthened by Timely and Concerted Actions
Examines key actions the federal government has taken to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Identifies lessons learned and issues that require continued attention by federal policymakers. Details recommendations to prepare for and improve the ongoing federal response.
Additional links: Full Report
Date: 09/2020
Sponsoring organization: Government Accountability Office
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Rural EMS COVID-19 Preparedness Checklist
Provides a checklist for rural response agencies to evaluate their current level of preparedness and identify areas that need additional action to better respond to COVID-19. Covers planning, strategy, personal protective equipment and supplies, workforce and recruiting, and funding.
Date: 08/2020
Sponsoring organizations: American Ambulance Association, Federal Healthcare Resilience Working Group
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Living and Learning Through COVID-19 - Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital and Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital
Profiles how two CAHs in rural Lincoln County, Oregon, prepared for and responded to a COVID-19 outbreak. Discusses steps taken to address staffing, supply chain, and awareness challenges that emerged during the pandemic.
Date: 08/2020
Sponsoring organization: American Hospital Association
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A Guide to Supporting Engagement and Resiliency in Rural Communities
Discusses strategies for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP) process in rural and tribal areas. Provides an overview of factors influencing rural and tribal communities' needs, perspectives, and ability to plan and implement emergency preparedness and response actions.
Date: 07/2020
Sponsoring organization: Federal Emergency Management Agency
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National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services Meeting Summary, July 30, 2020
Summarizes the 88th meeting of the National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services (NACRHHS), which was held virtually. Includes a discussion of the rural response to COVID-19.
Date: 07/2020
Sponsoring organization: National Advisory Committee on Rural Health and Human Services
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Hospitals Face Financial Challenges Due to COVID-19
Describes the financial impact of COVID-19 on Kittitas Valley Healthcare in Ellensburg, Washington. Discusses the decline in emergency department and non-emergency surgery volume and changes to labor costs as a percentage of net revenue.
Date: 07/2020
Sponsoring organization: American Hospital Association
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Rural Healthcare Surge Readiness
Resources for rural healthcare systems preparing for and responding to a COVID-19 surge. Includes resources for emergency medical services, inpatient and hospital care, ambulatory care, and long-term care settings. Addresses a wide range of topics including healthcare operations, space, supplies, funding, and more.
Date: 07/2020
Sponsoring organization: COVID-19 Healthcare Resilience Working Group
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