Mon Health Enhances Emergency Preparedness with Mass Casualty Training
Posted Date: 7/24/2023
Mon Health System staff work together to assess patients during mass casualty training on Friday, July 14, 2023
On Friday, July 14, Mon Health System participated in a mass casualty training exercise directed by the U.S. Army along with Morgantown Fire and Police, WV Department of Homeland Security, emergency management services, and medical and chemical companies. The training exercise provided Mon Health System with a unique opportunity to enhance its emergency response preparation.
The emergency incident drill involved a military aircraft carrying jet fuel that had crashed at Morgantown Municipal Airport. Victims required decontamination and medical treatment. Mon Health Medical Center served as a receiving facility for patients.
“This training was an invaluable opportunity to fine-tune our communications and collaborate effectively with local first responders,” said Mike Walsh, Director of Security at Mon Health Medical Center. “Working alongside them during the drill allowed Mon Health System to build strong relationships and familiarity, establishing a good foundation for coordination during real emergencies.”
The simulation assisted local agencies in becoming more prepared for real life emergency situations. Mon Health System staff including nurses, care coordinators, security officers, and others from various departments within the hospital came to volunteer and learn more about enhancing emergency procedures.
“Patient care did not suffer, which was our highest priority during this exercise,” said David Lacko, Trauma Coordinator at Mon Health Medical Center. “The surge of patient needs outnumbered resources, and our responding staff made every effort to make sure their response included the best care that they could provide, and they succeeded.”
Mon Health System continuously trains staff on emergency response and protocols and maintains relationships with local community services. This allows staff within the system to remain prepared in the face of a real-life disaster.
“I’m incredibly proud of our response, I can’t say it enough. We now have a base to build on to adjust so that we can be prepared for any emergency needs in the future, "said Lacko.
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