Description
This blended training course is part of a regional intervention designed to strengthen local health department (LHD) ability to effectively implement the Incident Command System (ICS) during public health emergencies. Tailored specifically for the public health workforce, the course "translates" ICS principles into public health language and real-world practice to enhance both individual understanding and organizational readiness. Participants will begin with a series of asynchronous online modules covering, brief, foundational topics such as hazards, response obligations, and core emergency functions. The training then culminates in two days of in-person, team-based instruction, featuring interactive activities and a scenario-based drill customized to reflect a disaster relevant to the participants’ local context.

Learning Objectives

1. Describe the nature and impact of public health emergencies: Understand hazards, disasters, vulnerabilities, and risks; define public health emergencies; and identify types of disasters and their effects on communities.

2. Analyze community vulnerabilities and risk factors: Identify marginalized populations, jurisdictional vulnerabilities, and use hazard risk assessment tools to evaluate likely threats in a community.

3. Explain the legal and organizational roles in emergency response: Understand the duties and authorities of state and local health departments, who can declare emergencies, and the legal powers during a public health crisis.

4. Apply national frameworks to public health emergency preparedness: Explain the Disaster Cycle, National Response Framework, National Incident Management System (NIMS), and the role of public health within these systems.

5. Demonstrate operational readiness in emergency response: Describe the Incident Command System (ICS), Departmental Operations Center setup, ICS organizational chart development, and pre-designated facilities.

6. Develop and implement effective emergency planning and communication: Use the Planning P to create objectives, prepare for Incident Action Planning meetings, and establish strong internal and external communication plans.

CE Approval