ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This article is dedicated to the memory of Thomas C . Hulsey , ScD , professor in the Department of Epidemiology at West Virginia University , for his guidance in support of the development of this survey design . sary to work in conditions where the local health clinics often become the source of leadership in times of crisis . Still , more research is needed to better understand why rural providers in this study felt prepared and capable of dealing with the upcoming emergency than previously studied groups . While there is room for improvement in the support of healthcare professionals during such challenging times , having smaller community-based healthcare clinics may lead to better communication among the staff , potentially easing the burden on clinicians and the vulnerable populations they serve during public health crises . These clinics should continue to make public health crisis preparedness a priority within their staff ’ s continuing education , so the community healthcare leaders are ready to aid their communities using the most effective strategies .
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