When it comes to preparing and managing incidents and outbreaks, the Florida Department of Health in Polk County (FDOH-Polk) is equipped with one of the county’s most valuable resources: the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). This community-based, volunteer unit provides aid to existing emergency response teams and public health resources during times of disaster. By adding capacity to our emergency response systems, state and county resources are freed to respond to greater emergency needs in the event of a disaster or special event.

"This vital emergency response program welcomes any volunteers with medical experience, such as doctors and nurses, and non-medical experience, such as health and safety officials, retirees, chaplains, office workers, and legal advisors,” says Dr. Ulyee Choe, Director of the Florida Department of Health in Polk County.

The MRC:

• Supports local public health initiatives by promoting disease prevention, improving health literacy, eliminating health disparities, and enhancing public health preparedness.
• Assists local hospitals, health departments, and other agencies when additional personnel are needed.
• Participates in community preparedness activities such as exercises for shelters, mass vaccinations, and other emergency scenarios.
• Trains with local emergency response partners.

September is National Preparedness Month, and while it is important for individuals to be prepared on a local level, it is part of FDOH-Polk’s responsibility to protect and promote the health and safety of the county. The local FDOH-Polk MRC chapter operates in partnership with FDOH-Hardee County.

The MRC is vital to keeping Polk County and Hardee County a safe place for residents due to the constant planning, preparing, and training for “what-if” situations. There is always a need for helping hands in the event of an emergency. MRC volunteers are assigned to areas in which they are properly trained and equipped. The time commitment is flexible and the trainings are free. Continuing education credits are provided for health care volunteers.

For more information about volunteering for the MRC see the following video link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YlnHteC7wE&list=PLNRjiBjDQnmb5tnBzZvGu4Sl4Zj0A6Zj-.