Haley Bugle , 27 November 2024 , 1st Edition
“ Providing real-time security for infrastructure and people makes the police an important component of the team ,” said Paul Fleming , VA police chief . “ Controlling access and providing security to facilities is crucial for everyone ’ s safety .”
Public Information was tasked with keeping the community , veterans , and staff informed of changes to the hospital ’ s operational status through media alerts , emails and social media postings .
Two more substantial elements of the ICS team include Human Resources and Finance . to established reimbursable accounts as set by the VA for declared emergencies .”
Facility Management and Services played a significant role in preparing for both storms , with emphasis on examining and anticipating structural damage and power requirements . The FMS team worked tirelessly through both storms , repairing water intrusions throughout the nights , while Environmental Services managed any potential safety hazards and contributed to cleanliness throughout the facility .
“ We are charged with the responsibility of addressing multiple organized response of the ICS .
“ I find being on the ICS team to be very calming , no matter what is going on ,” said Flannery . “ The team always keeps a composed , even-keeled approach to allow for a stress-free environment for disciplined , practical decisions that are not made under duress .”
As the sun shone once again , the hospital stood as a shining example of how teamwork and preparedness are the perfect formula to overcome any challenge . Moorehead and his team emerged victorious in the feat of keeping hospital operations running smoothly , with patients
“ The importance of the ICS is to allow the healthcare system to run normal operations , but emergency operations concurrently ,” said Moorehead .
“ Managing the labor pool and volunteers during an emergency is necessary for unexpected staff shortages to ensure the mission is completed without delays ,” said David Miller , human resources officer .
“ In this instance , the finance officer ’ s role is to monitor the utilization of financial assets and the accounting for financial expenditures ,” said Bob Konkel , finance chief . “ This is accomplished by providing funds as needed , tracking obligations , and supporting supply chain management and contracting . After the event , we gather the cost and transfer it issues , some of which will not be known ahead of time . Typically , we prepare the facility for loss of utilities such as water and power . We have backup systems , track available volume , and plan for how that equates to days of availability . We also implement plans to shed the demand load on those utilities ,” said Mike Rogala , FMS chief . “ We also address emergency calls during the event , such as leaks from rainwater , which are more prevalent with horizontal rain .”
As the storms passed , the hospital remained operational and safe , thanks to the swift and and staff safe from the brunt of the storms . They were praised for their exceptional leadership and communication .
“ It ’ s an honor to be the Incident Commander ,” said Moorehead . “ I am lucky to be part of such a skillful team .”
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