Kilmer Discusses Ebola Preparedness with Region’s Hospital Officials and Organizations

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) led a conference call with health officials from the 6th District to discuss ongoing planning and preparations to handle any possible Ebola cases. Kilmer was joined on the call by representatives from Olympic Medical Center, MultiCare, CHI Franciscan Health (Harrison Hospital), Jefferson Healthcare, Summit Pacific, Grays Harbor Community Hospital, Forks Community Hospital, and Mason General Hospital. 

“Ebola is both a public health concern and an international security threat,” said Kilmer. “In Washington state and across the country it’s important we take the proper preventive measures to ensure the health of every American. That’s why our public health agencies need to continue sending the latest news and information to healthcare providers in our region. I will continue to ensure communication and coordination between federal, state, and local authorities and encourage folks with any concerns to please contact my office.” 

The representatives of the medical community updated Kilmer on steps the hospitals are taking to handle any potential Ebola cases. These measures include new training sessions with protocols and information for front line health care workers. Other training exercises for staff include isolation techniques, screening patients, proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and strategies on how best to uniquely respond and treat a patient with Ebola symptoms at each institution. The stakeholders also discussed with Kilmer the need for continued communications between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) and local medical facilities.

For more information about Ebola, please visit www.cdc.gov/ebola.                       

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