Governor Brewer announces award to state of nearly $12 million

Bulk of Federal Emergency Preparedness Grant will be distributed to 15 counties and 12 tribes

  

            PHOENIX – Governor Jan Brewer today announced a multimillion-dollar cash infusion to help ensure the safety of Arizona citizens in the event of a public health emergency. The $11,894,000 in funding comes from a Prevention Health Emergency preparedness grant issued through the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). While the funding will flow through the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), 83 percent will be passed to local governments and tribes, which will use the resources for training and supplies.

"Although Arizona is already well prepared in the event of a public health emergency, this funding will add an additional layer of protection to ensure a rapid response," said Governor Brewer. “Arizona received high marks on the last CDC report card on public health preparedness. I have no doubt that, with continued cooperation between the state and local and tribal officials, Arizona will remain a leader in emergency preparedness.”

Among other uses, the funding will enhance an existing statewide communication system that allows the Arizona Department of Health Services to coordinate with local hospitals and county health departments during a public health emergency. This is critical when it comes to everything from monitoring the number of available beds at a local hospital to tracking antiviral stocks for distribution to the public.

“These funds will allow Arizona’s public health system to remain poised and on its toes,” said Will Humble, Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services.  “We have, and will maintain, the critical infrastructure needed for a coordinated and effective response to any public health emergency.”

All 50 states, eight territories and four cities share this year’s CDC Public Health Emergency grant. The focus this year is on advancing public health preparedness for laboratory testing; surveillance and epidemiological investigation; community preparedness; distribution of protective medicine in an emergency; emergency operations coordination; emergency public information and warning; as well as other capabilities.