Establishing Closed PODs: An Overview of Recruitment, Training, and Operational Matters

Topic: 
Medical Countermeasures & Points of Dispensing
Format: 
Online Course
Time: 
2 hours
Level: 
Introductory
University: 
University of Alabama
PERLC: 
South Central PERLC
Description: 

During a public health emergency that requires medical prophylaxis for a significant number of residents within 48-hours, it is essential to recruit private entities to serve its own employees and employees' family members. Closed Points Of Dispensing sites (PODs) can be alternatives to public POD sites and address the health department staffing challenges. This course provides an overview of the concepts and frameworks of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) and Closed PODs. Subject Matter Experts from the Alabama Department of Public Health and the Mississippi State Department of Health will discuss the process of requesting, recruitment, establishment, and operational matters for Closed PODs. Lessons learned and best practices related to the training, operating, and reporting of Closed PODs will be covered.

Learning Objectives: 
  • Introduce the purpose of the Strategic National Stockpile (SNS) and the process of allocate resources from CDC to state and local agencies
  • Explain the mission and importance of Closed PODs and the difference between Open and Closed PODs
  • Describe the process for an organization from qualification, recruitment, to being prepared to serve as a Closed PODs
  • Provide strategies for implementing the plan by state health departments to increase the number of Closed PODs
  • Understand issues related to the training, operating, and reporting of Closed PODs
PHEP Capabilities: 
Community Preparedness
Medical Countermeasure Dispensing
Emergency Operations Coordination