GNYHA and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) have launched a planning process to help hospitals across the region respond to the detonation of an Improvised Nuclear Device (IND). New York City is currently developing an IND response plan focused on the initial 72 hours after a detonation. DOHMH approached GNYHA about developing a health care component to complement the citywide plan.
Nearly a dozen hospitals and health systems from across the region were represented at the initial meeting on August 7. The group reviewed existing IND impact models and previous exercises, and facilitated discussions focused on IND scenarios. Participants then split into three groups representing hospitals in the moderate damage zone, light damage zone, and beyond the immediate zone of impact, and discussed key actions within the first 24 hours post-detonation.
Over subsequent meetings, the three geographically based groups will develop recommended actions for three time periods: 0-24 hours, 24-48 hours, and 48-72 hours post-detonation. The end product will enhance the New York City IND plan and provide hospitals with a template for internal planning. If you are interested in joining this workgroup, please contact Jenna Mandel-Ricci.