This funding will provide a unique opportunity to expand Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) units, address response barriers, and lay the foundation for a more sustainable volunteer health professional network across the State. Specifically, the State will be able to expand MRC unit availability in tribal communities and build additional capacity for public health emergencies. The goal of this project is to establish and re-establishing MRC units in underserved areas and will work with mature MRC programs to enhance statewide capability and capacity. Furthermore, the Department will work with sub-recipients to ensure that progress made as a result of this funding opportunity is maintained, integrated into routine operations, and documented in a comprehensive sustainability plan.
The following project objectives have been identified for this funding opportunity:
1) Establish or reestablish at least six MRC units across the State,
2) Establish at least three new MRC units in tribal jurisdictions within the State,
3) Increase the number of registered volunteers in the State by 25%,
4) Develop training and leadership programs for MRC staff in every participating county and tribal jurisdiction, and
5) Develop statewide, standardized policies and procedures for volunteer utilization to strengthen
unit administration.
The outcomes of this project include:
1) an increased number of volunteer health professionals (VHPs) across the State,
2) a greater number of MRC units, and
3) an expanded ability to deploy VHPs to underserved areas.
The products from this project include:
1) standardized plans and procedures for MRC units statewide,
2) updated training materials,
3) deployment of equipment to MRC units.