Safety

New law calls for better hospital surge capacity

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Hospital Safety Connection!

Last week, President Bush signed a bill that in part aims to increase the ability of hospitals and medical workers to respond to community disasters.

The Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act authorizes $2.5 billion from fiscal year 2007 through 2011 to help hospitals better prepare for emergencies and surge capacity.

Congress must still appropriate the necessary funds, though, according to the American Hospital Association.

The new law, numbered S3678, also

calls for plans to protect healthcare workers and first responders from workplace exposures during a public health emergency
establishes a medical reserve corps to provide volunteers in the case of a public health emergency
mandates that the government develop a electronic system to enhance early detection and rapid response to infectious disease outbreaks

Want to receive articles like this one in your inbox? Subscribe to Hospital Safety Connection!

Hospital Safety Center

Improve compliance with hospital safety standards from The Joint Commission, OSHA, and other regulators with this...
Healthcare Life Safety Compliance

Learn Life Safety Code tips and interpretations for healthcare facilities with this in-depth monthly resource.
Hospital Safety Connection

Stay on top of hospital safety requirements and best practices with our free, fast-paced weekly update.
Administering Your OSHA Program

This course will help an employee new to the role of OSHA safety officer. It gives an overview of OSHA requirements and...
Medical OSHA Manual Combo

Get into compliance with Quality America's OSHA Safety Program Manual and stay in compliance with OSHA Watch Newsletter...