Disaster Medical System

Training and Exercises

Function 1: Development and Maintenance of Medical and Health Disaster Plans, Policies, and Procedures for the Operational Area

Element 1.3: Training and Exercises

Guideline 1.3.1: Training and Exercises

TRAINING AND EXERCISES

I. PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance related to training for disaster and the performance of exercises designed to practice elements of the Disaster Medical System.

II. AUTHORITY

Division 2.5, Health and Safety Code, Section 1797.150-152

III. POLICIES

A. In conjunction with the Office of Emergency Services (OES), system participants shall work together to

1. AssessDetermine training needs for field, local government, and operational area level personnel based on recommendations in the Disaster Medical Services Guidelines and Standards;, Training Section;

2. Determine the optimal system for delivery of training;

3. Encourage pParticipateion in a comprehensive training program that includes initial, periodic, and annual refresher trainings; and

4. Schedule training exercises.

B. All system constituents shall participate in scheduled exercises that will, at minimum, exercise the following:

1. The medical plan annually;

2. Multiple agencies annually;

3. Multiple agency field exercise every two years; and

4. Periodic personnel alert/contact exercises.

C. Agencies planning discipline-specific exercises with medical components should notify the LEMSA and incorporate, at a minimum, communications with related agencies (e.g., field with hospital; hospital with the Medical OAC; Operational Area with the Region, etc.) as part of the exercise plan.