The Scenario
For over a week, six hospitals in the Central Plains area of the U.S. experience a significant increase in visits to their Emergency Departments with associated hospital admissions. This quickly overwhelms the hospitals, forcing many to divert transports and activate their Hospital Command Centers (HCC). By week two, public health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) announce the first modern-day United States pandemic influenza cases. Staff members become ill and hospital Human Resources departments are unable to find clinical and administrative support. Hospitals are stretched to their limits and many services must be curtailed or cancelled.
The Challenges
Patient Surge. Patient admissions are rising but the trend isnt spotted until its too late.
Lack of Information. Many facilities in the area are unfamiliar with the latest recommendations from the local public health departments or the CDC regarding pandemic flu outbreaks, leaving them unprepared for a coordinated response.
Responders are Unavailable. Many personnel that are part of the Hospital Command Center responder list for pandemic flu are themselves sick, leaving them unable to respond.
Demand for Beds and Resources. There is a very high demand for beds, clinical staff and ventilators. Finding them in the area is proving to be nearly impossible.
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