The tragic events of September 11, anthrax attacks, Hurricane Katrina and pandemic flu threats have increased the national attention given to public health emergency preparedness and the difficulties associated with effectively utilizing healthcare volunteers during a mass casualty event or public health crisis.
Experience has shown that in an emergency, overwhelming numbers of healthcare personnel are eager and willing to volunteer their services. The Nebraska Volunteer Registry is a comprehensive database that functions as a central repository for volunteer information. Individuals interested in volunteering will indicate their interests, credentials and contact information in this secure, electronic environment. Information can then be queried and appropriate volunteers contacted by authorized personnel. Advanced registration of healthcare volunteers will provide hospitals, public health, and emergency authorities immediate access to qualified and credentialed personnel that may be needed in the event of an emergency.
