Regional Healthcare Coalitions

For the past two years, the US Department of Homeland Security, the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been focusing on the “whole community” approach to public health and healthcare service delivery. Realizing that there is more efficiency and synergy generated when healthcare providers and support agencies work together for a common purpose, DHHS’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR); CDC’s Office of Public Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP); and the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) have spearheaded the creation of State and Regional Healthcare Coalitions (HCC). 

Healthcare Coalitions are not a disaster response entity. Rather, this collaborative network of partner agencies serves as a major resource support network to each of the county emergency management operations through Emergency Support Function 8 (Health and Medical). DSI has served as the consultant for the Big Bend Healthcare Coalition since its inception. We have assisted with the creation of a proper legal entity, with obtaining 501(c)(3) status from the IRS, and in successfully launching the BBHCC. The Big Bend Healthcare Coalition includes the following essential partners:

  • Hospitals and other Healthcare Providers

  • EMS Providers

  • Emergency Management

  • Public Safety

  • Long-term Care Providers

  • Mental/Behavioral Health Providers

  • Private Health Care Groups

  • Specialty Services (i.e. dialysis, pediatrics)

  • Support Services (e.g., labs, pharmacies, blood banks, poison control

  • Primary Care Providers

  • Community Health Centers

  • Public Health

  • Federal entities (e.g. NDMS, VA Hospitals)

  • Area Agency on Aging

  • Others

DSI’s facilitation of the BBHCC has been in partnership with the Florida Department of Health in Leon County, Leon County EMS, Leon County Emergency Management, Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and key representatives from the eight counties and multiple disciplines. Our goal is to create a healthcare coalition that can sustain itself over time, and be a valuable asset during disasters impacting the Big Bend Region.