About Us

Preparedness

Preparedness takes the form of plans or procedures designed to save lives and to minimize damage when an emergency occurs. Planning, training and disaster drills are essential elements of preparedness. These activities ensure that when a disaster strikes, emergency managers will be able to provide the best response possible. Disasters are caused by gale force winds, floods, releases of deadly chemicals, fire, ice, earthquakes and other natural and mand-made hazards. When disaster strikes, the best protection is knowing what to do.

More Information available at FEMA Preparedness Publications page

CHA Hospital Preparedness Program

Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Planning Resources for California Hospitals picture

The California Hospital Association's Hospital Preparedness Program (CHA HPP) provides ongoing support to California hospitals and health systems in all-hazard’s disaster planning and response.

Five Hospital Preparedness Coordinators (HPCs) provide technical assistance to hospitals under the direction of the program's executive director. The program is also supported by one education coordinator and one administrative coordinator.

The CHA HPP is financed by U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response grant funds awarded by the California Department of Public Health and its program objectives are consistent with those of the federal grant program.

CHA coordinates the annual disaster planning conference for California hospitals. The conference is the largest gathering of hospital emergency preparedness planners in the state. Attendees include hospital personnel, community partners, and state officials. Conference topics cover the full spectrum of emergency response topics relevant to health care facilities.