Mobile field hospital training exercise a success | News

BATAVIA, OH (FOX19) - Sent by Rebecca Kimble

The Clermont County Fairgrounds was the setting for a day-long training exercise on September 14.

The exercise was a joint effort between the Clermont County General Health District (CCGHD) and Hamilton County Public Health (HCPH), in recognition of National Preparedness Month in September.  Teams from both agencies were tasked with constructing a wing of the Alternative Care Center (ACC), a 210-bed mobile field hospital purchased by the Southwest Ohio Public Health Region to be used during emergencies.  The mobile medical facility can provide triage, acute care, and inpatient treatment to victims during a disaster.  Each wing consists of three large tents, two connecting vestibules, flooring, 30 beds, medical supplies, lights, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and a generator.

The training exercise allowed both the Clermont and Hamilton County ACC setup teams to practice constructing the mobile hospital.  “The Clermont County General Health District relies heavily on county partners for the delivery and setup of the ACC,” said Emergency Response Coordinator with CCGHD Tim Kelly.  “The Highway Operations Department from the Clermont County Engineer’s Office is the volunteer unit designated to setup the ACC for Clermont County, and the Central Joint Fire and EMS District provides the driver and tractor-trailer necessary to haul the ACC and its supplies.  We would like to thank them for their support.”

Volunteers from the Tristate Medical Reserve Corps were on hand to observe, and a representative from Western Shelter, the manufacturer of the ACC, was present to provide valuable feedback to both county’s teams.  County administration and Emergency Management Officials were there to lend support. 

“The result of this exercise is that both agencies now feel more prepared if the need for the ACC ever arises,” said Kelly.  During National Preparedness Month, the CCGHD encourages all citizens to be prepared for an emergency or disaster by assembling an emergency supply kit, planning ahead, staying informed, and getting your family, business, and community involved and prepared.  For more information, visit the websites www.ready.gov or www.cdc.gov/features/beready.