Health Department

YOU CAN HELP BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER A DISASTER

The mission of the Boone County Medical Reserve Corps is to recruit, retain and train all medical and non-medical volunteers in order to create a healthy and effective response in the local community.

What is an MRC?

A Medical Reserve Corp volunteer is an individual dedicated and willing to assist our local community during a public health emergency. Emergencies such as pandemics, natural disasters and acts of terrorism.

History of the MRC program:

Following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, many individuals offered to help the overwhelmed first responders. Many were healthcare professionals that stepped forward to help. Unfortunately, emergency management did not have the capability or the time to verify their backgrounds, training, or credentials. Two months later the Anthrax incidences occurred. Once more, a heavy burden was placed on emergency responders and healthcare workers.

In 2002, President George W Bush, during his state of the union address, called on all Americans to volunteer. From that call to action, the MRC project was created. In 2006, congress passed the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act, which authorized the Medical Reserve Corp program.

Since, the MRC network has evolved to more than 200,000 volunteers in roughly 800 units nationwide.

Mission Statement:

The Boone County MRC is a group of individuals dedicated to strengthening public health by supplementing our needs and improving the resilience of our community.

Our mission is to enhance community health operations during large-scale emergencies, aid in fulfilling duties to pressing health care needs, and improve emergency preparedness within our community.

Who should apply?

• Active or retired licensed health care professionals
• Other non-medical individuals who can fill supporting roles
• Veterinarians
• HAM Operators
• Clergy

Frequently asked questions:

• Do I have to be a medical professional?

            No.

We have many volunteers that support roles such as clerical workers, greeters, errand runners, and more.

• Am I required to volunteer a minimum number of hours each month?

            No.

You are not required to meet a set number of hours monthly.

• Are there certain requirements to be a volunteer?

            Yes.

*Complete an online application

*Hold a valid driver’s license

*Consent to a background check

• Will I be required to complete mandatory training?

            Yes.

Each volunteer will be required to complete 4 FEMA classes that are available on the FEMA website. These classes are introductory to the National Incident Management System (NIMS). There is no charge for these classes. (IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, IS-800)