Rhode Island Department of Health, Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency Host Pandemic Influenza & Special Needs Leadership Training Program
The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) and the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) have joined forces to host the Pandemic Influenza & Special Needs Leadership Training Program on September 15th, 16th and 17th at the Radisson Airport Hotel in Warwick.
National and state leaders will present strategies to prepare for, respond to and recover from an influenza pandemic. This training can be applied to the ongoing H1N1 response efforts. Individuals with chronic medical conditions and special healthcare needs are at higher risk for complications from influenza. Therefore, a special emphasis of the training program will be placed on planning for special needs populations, including children and adults with underlying medical conditions.
Executive Director J.David Smith will give the welcoming address each morning to the attendees. "Addressing the needs of our special needs population has always been a prime objective of our agency. Their willingness and courage to adapt to various challenges is an inspiration to all of us but the consequence of the H1N1 virus or any other hazard may require special assistance. If you are a caregiver or neighbor to someone with special needs please learn about the considerations necessary for someone with an underlyng condition. We will support the Rhode Island Department of Health in any way we can to help our citizens through this difficult period of H1N1 outbreak. Their life may depend on it." Stated Director Smith.
More than 600 Rhode Islanders, including representing state agencies, community organizations, healthcare providers, emergency management officials, first responders, and individuals, will participate in the training. The training will focus on the importance of personal preparedness. Attendees will learn about the essential items that should be included in a personal readiness kit. Community organizations will also have the opportunity to participate in a strategy session focused on developing Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans.
For more information, visit http://www.riema.ri.gov or call 946-9996.