Bioterrorism Awareness and Preparedness Program to offer training sessions statewide

“Preparedness and Management of your Healthcare Facility from a Disaster or Bioterrorism Event; Are You Ready?” is the topic of a program that will be presented at several locations throughout Idaho on March 12, 19, and 26 from 1 to 3 p.m.

The training will provide detailed information for medical and public health professionals in the recognition and management of biological/chemical and natural disaster casualties, both physical and mental, and notifying the appropriate response agencies. Experts from the US Army Medical Research and Material Command, the Department of Defense, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Medical Group Management Association will present these programs.

The schedule for presentations is as follows:    

• March 12 – “The Psychological Effects of Bioterrorism in a Healthcare Setting” presented by LTC. Ross Pastel, PhD; USAMRMC Medical Liaison Officer to Rapid Equipping force and PEO-Soldier.

• March 19 –     “ Preparing Your Practice for a Disaster and Emergency Event” presented by David N. Gans, MSHA, FACMPE; Vice President, Practice Management Resources, MGM.

• March 26 – “Medical Management of Bio-Terrorism Casualties” presented by COL. Ted Cieslak, MD; Dept. of Defense Liaison Officer, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

All presentations will be at the following locations:

• Pocatello: ISU campus, Eli M. Oboler Library, Room VA 117    

• Idaho Falls: ISU-Idaho Falls campus, 1776 Science Center Dr., Room CHE 314

• Boise: ISU Boise Center, 12301 W. Explorer Dr., Suite 102, Room 143

• Twin Falls: College of Southern Idaho, Evergreen Bldg, Room C-91

• Lewiston: Lewis and Clark State College, Sam Glenn Complex, Room SG-50

• Coeur d’ Alene:  North Idaho College, North Idaho Center for Higher Education, 1000 W. Hubbard Street, Suite 130

• Caldwell: University of Idaho Research and Extension Center, 1904 E. Chicago Street, suite A-B

• Moscow: University of Idaho Education Building, Campus Drive and Blake Avenue, Room Ed103

Medical care providers, first responders, healthcare administrators and others who would assist in recognizing and managing casualties from a biological, chemical or natural disaster event are strongly encouraged to attend.

Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. For information about the telecast or to pre-register, visit the IBAPP Web site: www.ibapp.org and go to “Upcoming Offerings”. For further information, contact Kevin at the ISU-Institute of Rural Health (208) 282-4436.