During emergency and large scale non-emergency events, the Health and Medical Emergency Response Teams (HMERT) are available to provide trained emergency medical services personnel to assist the Virginia Department of Health, Office of Emergency Medical Services in state health and medical disaster response. Task Forces, Coordination Teams, and specialized Strike Teams provide services to meet a locality’s needs.
HMERT members train in the entire scope of disaster management, including all areas of emergency operations. They work closely with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and U.S. Public Health Service, to effectively coordinate local, state, and federal government response.
For information on how your agency can become an asset for the Health and Medical Emergency Response Team (HMERT) or for information on how to request and support HMERT resources during emergency and non-emergency events contact Karen Owens, Emergency Operations Division Director (Karen.Owens@vdh.virginia.gov) at 804-888-9155.