Storm Surge: Nature Never Follows the Rules

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on August 6, 2024 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2024 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Storm Surge: Nature Never Follows the Rules” presented by Dr. Andrew Sulyma.

During this presentation, attendees will learn to:

  • Mitigate the provision of EMS services: ensuring redundancy of phone systems, radio communication, and transportation during severe storms and flooding

  • Safeguard the continued delivery of social services to specialty populations (unsheltered, OTP, AFN, and seniors)

  • Provide assistance to GACHs and LTCFs to maintain operational readiness for standard and specialty services

  • Work within the confines of Standardized Emergency Management Systems (SEMS) to allow contiguous operational areas to assist (and supplant) affected areas

  • Facilitate State and Federal Aid for temporary shelter, rebuilding affected infrastructure, and ensuring limited downtime for local economies (agriculture and farming)

Andy is an experienced front line healthcare provider with a three decade history in the Emergency Medical Services industry both as a first responder and as a regulator. He has extensive skill in EMS Operations and Administration, Disaster Management, Clinician Oversight and Investigations, and Tactical Medicine. Collaborating with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) and the Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA), he successfully navigated the 16 California Counties of CalOES Region Il through the COVID -19 pandemic including provision of vital emergency staffing, hospital surge expansion, deployment of PPE, vaccines, and antiviral medications.

Andy has directed and assisted stakeholders with strategies to navigate MPox, RSV, Ebola, the Winter Storms, and Wild Fire Season. He has also served as a Doctor of Chiropractic for 25+ years, a Paramedic for 18 years, and an Athletic Trainer for 30+ years. Andy has a strong healthcare services history working with entities including American Medical Response, Paramedics Plus, Falck, ESO, ReddiNet, Crossfit and RockTape. He lives in the Bay Area of Northern California with his wife and has two sons in college.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlcO-tqDwjG9TFNm0nCl_CvfSA2xAbvvur#/registration

MESH CoalitionComment
The Mission in the Mission: Medical Case Management for the Homeless

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on April 30, 2024 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2024 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “The Mission in the Mission: Medical Case Management for the Homeless” presented by Alicia Dinkeldein-Warren.

During this presentation, attendees will learn to:

  • The merging of emergency medical care and medical case management for those experiencing homelessness.

  • How EMS is well suited to confront socioeconomic inequity issues that face an urban community.

  • Barriers faced for case management completion.

Alicia Dinkeldein-Warren is an EMT-B with Indianapolis EMS Ambulance Service in Indianapolis, Indiana. She has a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a focus in Public Safety Management from Indiana University Purdue University of Indianapolis (IUPUI) and is a Certified Community Health Worker (C.C.H.W.).

Alicia has been with IEMS for over 13 years and has held positions as a Logistics Specialist, Grant Manager for the C.A.R.E.S. program, Public Relations Coordinator, and for four years has been detailed to the Community Paramedicine Team. Working with individuals experiencing homelessness and high social determinants of health is a passion of hers. By combining this passion with her skills as an EMT-B and C.C.H.W., she has been instrumental in identifying and addressing social determinants of health barriers throughout the City of Indianapolis. Alicia's unique combination of emergency medicine and case management has garnered national media attention along with invitations to present at conferences throughout the United States. Her hope is that other agencies will learn from her success and implement similar strategies that will promote health equity across the nation.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrdOugqTwuE9KxAgoszfwU2lEjjigvRoFj#/registration

MESH CoalitionComment
MESH Named 2023 Weather-Ready Nation Ambassdor of Excellence

For the seventh year, NOAA and the National Weather Service are proud to recognize “Ambassadors of Excellence” -- a select number of WRN Ambassador organizations that have made significant contributions to building a Weather-Ready Nation. By serving as change agents and leaders in their communities, Ambassadors of Excellence have:

  • Inspired others to take action and become ready, responsive, and resilient

  • Created innovative ways to engage their community, their workforce, and/or their social network

  • Formed unique collaborations with NOAA and/or other ambassador organizations to achieve goals they alone could not meet

  • Embraced building “a Weather-Ready Nation for All” by addressing vulnerable populations’ needs.

Our appreciation also extends to the 13,000 WRN Ambassadors for their unique contributions and accomplishments in helping spread WRN messages, collaborating with NOAA, serving as an example to others, and sharing success stories. Everyday, Weather-Ready Nation Ambassadors serve a pivotal role in affecting societal change, sharing safety messaging, serving as an example, and highlighting successes - all helping to build a Weather-Ready Nation!

MESH Coalition - Managed Emergency Surge for Healthcare

The MESH Coalition - Managed Emergency Surge for Healthcare, is based in Indianapolis, Indiana and has been a WRN Ambassador since 2021. The MESH Coalition is a non-profit, public-private partnership that coordinates, supports and strengthens healthcare and related entities to mitigate, prepare for, respond to and recover from the effects of emergency and crisis events and incidents. MESH collaborates with partners and stakeholders from healthcare, public health, emergency medical services, public safety, government, academic, non-profit and private sector organizations to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure in support of the whole community. The MESH Coalition is a leader in and national model for comprehensive healthcare emergency management. Since becoming a WRN Ambassador, MESH administrator Jim Floyd has been actively engaged with the National Weather Service, especially related to improving life saving weather services to the underserved and vulnerable population groups. In recent months, the MESH coalition has reached out to the NWS with an invite to present information about our UVP program at their national conference. This will create opportunities for partnerships between many NWS offices and healthcare emergency managers nationally. The MESH coalition is also using NWS safety and educational materials to train healthcare “coaches” about weather hazards so they can go out into communities and share NWS information directly with those who may not have easy access to the materials and messages. The MESH coalition has been an invaluable partner since becoming a WRN Ambassador and we look forward to many great opportunities that lie ahead. Full List of 2023 WRN Ambassadors of Excellence

MESH CoalitionComment
Weather Hazards and Preparedness

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on October 17, 2023 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2023 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Weather Hazards and Preparedness” presented by Sam Lashley.

During this presentation, attendees will learn to:

  • Understand the mission and vision of the National Weather Service.

  • Be able to identify severe weather types, associated hazards, and safety precautions for each hazard.

  • Learn where to find resources online for weather safety planning and preparedness.

  • Know the importance of a weather liaison and responsibilities of this position.

Sam Lashley is the Warning Coordination Meteorologist (WCM) for the National Weather Service Indianapolis office. Sam is a 30 year employee with the NWS and has worked in the Milwaukee WI, Northern Indiana and Indianapolis Indiana offices during his career.

As the Indianapolis WCM, Sam is responsible for maintaining close working relationships with core partners, supporting emergency management officials and first responders with Impact-Based Decision Support Services, and spreading weather safety and preparedness information through outreach and engagement. Sam enjoys supporting the Purdue Boilermakers (Boiler Up!), fishing, and golfing in his spare time.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtcO2oqz4iG9EoZa9su58sEWGBivvOZfPl#/registration

MESH CoalitionComment
Mental Health Crisis Support in Mass Casualty Incidents: Indianapolis FedEx 2021

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on August 29, 2023 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2023 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Mental Health Crisis Support in Mass Casualty Incidents: Indianapolis FedEx 2021” presented by Kimble Richardson, M.S., LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, LCAC

During this presentation, attendees will learn to:

  • Name at least three cultures affected by this critical incident

  • List at least two models of crisis intervention utilized.

  • Understand at least one team intervention goal.

Kimble has a Master’s in Counseling from Indiana University and currently works at Community Health Network (Community Fairbanks Behavioral Health and Community Fairbanks Recovery Center). He is licensed in Indiana as a mental health counselor, clinical social worker, marriage and family therapist, and clinical addiction counselor and is an appointed member of the Behavioral Health and Human Services licensing board.

He is certified in and an instructor for Critical Incident Stress Management. He is the coordinator for Indiana’s District 5 Resilience and Emotional Support Team and since 2020, has been a hub team member, presenter, and facilitator for Project ECHO Resilience programs with the University of New Mexico School of Medicine. He’s been published in several journals, most recently the International Review of Psychiatry.

He has provided training and consultation for the US Postal Service Office of Inspector General, FBI, NCAA, and Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services.In 2022, he attending training at the FBI Academy Behavioral Analysis Unit and in June 2023, he completed FBI Hostage Negotiator Training.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcu-qqjsrHdTEZrbG0YBkGHaIxKblqPaV#/registration

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rcu-qqjsrHdTEZrbG0YBkGHaIxKblqPaV#/registration

MESH CoalitionComment
Enhancing the Story Telling of Community Needs Assessments with Community Based Asset Mapping

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on April 25, 2023 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2023 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Enhancing the Story Telling of Community Needs Assessments with Community Based Asset Mapping ” presented by Andrew Funk, B.S.

During this presentation, attendees will learn:

  • Describe what Community Health Needs Assessments are, and what agency requires their completion.

  • Explain the difference between quantitative and qualitative data.

  • Paraphrase what Community Based Asset Mapping is.

  • List resources for creating community based asset maps.

Andrew Funk currently works as a Client Advocate for the Center for At-Risk Elders, a not-for-profit advocacy law firm, specializing in court appointed guardianship. In this role, Andrew works with incapacitated, abused, or neglected adults to facilitate informed decision-making, and ensuring that these individuals have every opportunity and resource available to them.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Andrew was deployed to one of Indiana’s Safe Recovery Sites, where unhoused individuals who tested positive for COVID were able to quarantine and recover. Andrew also played an integral role in ensuring successful reintegration to the community for residents of the site, utilizing his network of community providers and resources to secure housing and access to medical providers, along with other important, but overlooked services for those vulnerable individuals.

Andrew holds a Bachelor of Psychology from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and is a current Master of Social Work candidate, with expected completion by May 13, 2023. Andrew’s areas of focus include crisis management, healthcare emergencies, and end-of-life decision-making.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAudO6spz0iEtUnpIyLXC8hOMVc7c1ZTMQ3#/registration

MESH CoalitionComment
NHCPC IS COMING TO LAS VEGAS

Mark Your Calendars because NHCPC 2023 is Coming to Las Vegas!

Join us at the 2023 National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference and become part of A CHANGING WORLD: OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRANSFORMATION. Attendees will benefit from advancing their individual and collective skill sets by participating sessions of content, sharing best practices, building partnerships, and interacting with the latest technology and industry thought leaders in the Exhibit Hall.

We are excited to announce the dates for the 2023 National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference on November 28 – 30, 2023, at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, NV. Join us in person for A CHANGING WORLD: OPPORTUNITIES FOR TRANSFORMATION, Your commitment and participation will help us make this a successful conference. To stay up-to-date on attendee information, be sure to sign up. For immediate questions please contact NHCPC@mma-inc.com or 844-475-4556. 

MESH CoalitionComment
Preparing for Success in a Mass Shooting Event | MESH Grand Rounds

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on February 21, 2023 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2023 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Preparing for Success in a Mass Shooting Event: Lessons learned and how to ensure success for the next event ” presented by Chief Darin Hoggatt, M.S., NRP

During this presentation, attendees will learn:
- Describe how disaster preparedness and crisis management can help reduce the stress of leadership managing a disaster or emergency.

- Ideas for developing successful outcomes for emergencies utilizing training, communication, and repetition.

- Strategies for bringing emergency response agencies and associated organizations together before an emergency to ensure a positive outcome.

Darin earned his A.S. in Paramedicine in 1994 from Ball State University. He also received a B.S. in History, Biology, and Chemistry the same year. He started work as a street medic, and then became an operations supervisor for Myers Ambulance. At the same time he began work as a firefighter.

In 1998 he earned a M.S. in Biology from Purdue University. Darin has worked at the Greenwood Fire Department since 1996, becoming full time in 2001. He is currently the Chief of the Department. He also has been a SWAT medic with Indiana University Health since 1998.

He is a Commissioner for the Indiana EMS Commission and is the current president of the United Way of Johnson County and past president of the Johnson County Fire Chiefs Association. Darin has been married to April since 1993 and has two children.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: REGISTRATION PAGE

MESH CoalitionComment
Bridging the Gap | MESH Grand Rounds

Join us virtually (via Zoom) on October 25, 2022 from 1:00- 2:00 p.m. ET for the 2022 MESH Grand Rounds Series event “Bridging the Gap” presented by La Tonya Brown, ASCJ, BSHS, CHW, CTP.

During this presentation, attendees will learn:
- To assess and provide for the needs identified for different communities.
- To live out diversity, equity, and inclusion within their work and promote within the communities in which they serve.
- To think outside the box when providing service.

La Tonya Brown is a director, educator, and motivational speaker. She holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice, Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, a Community Health worker, a certification in Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in the Workplace, and is trauma-informed care and DBT certified. She is the founder and director of Leading Ladies Inc., author of Courageous Love Workbook, and director of the Project from Me 2 U documentary. Diverse, challenging, captivating, relevant, and powerful are a few words that describe La Tonya Brown.

All events in the MESH Grand Rounds Series are FREE and open to the public!

Continuing Education credit (CME/CEU) is available for this presentation.

Click the link to register: REGISTRATION PAGE

MESH CoalitionComment
NHCPC 2022 IS COMING TO ANAHEIM

Join us at the 2022 National Healthcare Coalition Preparedness Conference and become part of the RIPPLE EFFECT: Leveraging Local Successes for National Impact. By learning from the local-level triumphs and challenges of America's healthcare coalitions, we can adapt these successes into long-term, dynamic solutions that will benefit fellow coalitions across the country. Although our Coalitions are each unique and diverse, as a whole we have the same ultimate purpose - to improve the health and safety of the communities we serve.

Professionals in emergency management, healthcare coalitions, volunteer organizations and all levels of government (federal, state and local) will benefit from advancing their individual and collective skill sets by participating in over 40 sessions of content, sharing best practices, building partnerships, and interacting with the latest technology and industry thought leaders in the Exhibit Hall.

Head over to our NHCPC Tab to access more information!

MESH CoalitionComment
Understanding Watch/Warning/Advisory Definitions

There are countless ways that the National Weather Service tries to keep our communities safe. One of the important ways they do that is by pushing out notifications for various potentially hazardous weather to those that could be impacted. With different climates throughout the country it is important to understand the weather that pertains to where you live. Below you will find all of the listed hazardous weather notifications that come from the National Weather Service. However, it is important to note that these definitions can have different qualifying standards relative to location. The map below is a screenshot of a live National Weather Service map that displays the watches/warnings/advisories for all regions across the United States. Access this NWS map here.


Hazardous Weather Outlook

The Hazardous Weather Outlook will describe potential hazardous weather and hydrologic information of concern in Days 1 through 7. The outlook contains two segments: One segment for the marine zones and adjacent land-based (i.e., coastal) zones and the other segment for the rest of the land-based zones. Each segment of the HWO will contain 3 sections: short term through Day 1, long term for Days 2-7, and spotter information.

Wind Chill Warning: Take Action! NWS issues a wind chill warning when dangerously cold wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with a wind chill warning, avoid going outside during the coldest parts of the day. If you do go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination.

Wind Chill Watch: Be Prepared: NWS issues a wind chill watch when dangerously cold wind chill values are possible. As with a warning, adjust your plans to avoid being outside during the coldest parts of the day. Make sure your car has at least a half a tank of gas, and update your winter survival kit.

Wind Chill Advisory: Be Aware: NWS issues a wind chill advisory when seasonably cold wind chill values but not extremely cold values are expected or occurring. Be sure you and your loved ones dress appropriately and cover exposed skin when venturing outdoors.

Hard Freeze Warning: Take Action! NWS issues a hard freeze warning when temperatures are expected to drop below 28°F for an extended period of time, killing most types of commercial crops and residential plants.

Freeze Warning: Take Action! When temperatures are forecasted to go below 32°F for a long period of time, NWS issues a freeze warning. This temperature threshold kills some types of commercial crops and residential plants.

Freeze Watch: Be Prepared: NWS issues a freeze watch when there is a potential for significant, widespread freezing temperatures within the next 24-36 hours. A freeze watch is issued in the autumn until the end of the growing season and in the spring at the start of the growing season.

Frost Advisory: Be Aware: A frost advisory means areas of frost are expected or occurring, posing a threat to sensitive vegetation.

Winter Storm Watch

A Winter Storm Watch is issued when there is the potential for significant and hazardous winter weather within 48 hours. It does not mean that significant and hazardous winter weather will occur...it only means it is possible.

Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of: 5 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period AND/OR Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines AND/OR a life threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind.

Blizzard Warning

A Blizzard Warning means that the following conditions are occurring or expected within the next 12 to 18 hours. Snow and/or blowing snow reducing visibility to 1/4 mile or less for 3 hours or longer AND Sustained winds of 35 mph or greater or frequent gusts to 35 mph or greater.
There is no temperature requirement that must be met to achieve blizzard conditions.

Winter Storm Warning

A Winter Storm Warning is issued when a significant combination of hazardous winter weather is occurring or imminent. Significant and hazardous winter weather is defined as a combination of:
1)  5 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 12-hour period or 7 inches or more of snow/sleet within a 24-hour period AND/OR Enough ice accumulation to cause damage to trees or powerlines. AND/OR a life threatening or damaging combination of snow and/or ice accumulation with wind.

Ice Storm Warning

¼ inch or more of ice accumulation.

Winter Weather Advisory

A Winter Weather Advisory will be issued for any amount of freezing rain, or when 2 to 4 inches of snow (alone or in combination with sleet and freezing rain), is expected to cause a significant inconvenience, but not serious enough to warrant a warning.
 

Frost Advisory

A Frost Advisory is issued when the minimum temperature is forecast to be 33 to 36 degrees on clear and calm nights during the growing season. A Frost Advisory is issued in the spring at the start of the growing season (when it is late enough to cause damage to new plants and crops).

Dense Fog Advisory

A Dense Fog Advisory is issued when widespread fog is expected to reduce visibilities to 1/4 mile or less over a large area for an extended period of time (2 or more hours).

High Wind Watch

A High Wind Watch is issued when the following conditions are possible: sustained winds of 40 mph or higher for one hour or more OR wind gusts of 58 mph or higher for any duration.

High Wind Warning

A High Wind Warning is issued when sustained winds of 40 mph or higher for one hour or more OR wind gusts of 58 mph or higher for any duration.

Hurricane Watch

A Hurricane Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of 64 kt (74 mph) or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding. The watch does not mean that hurricane conditions will occur. It only means that these conditions are possible.

Hurricane Warning

A Hurricane Warning is issued when sustained winds of 64 kt (74 mph) or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding. A hurricane warning can remain in effect when dangerously high water or a combination of dangerously high water and exceptionally high waves continue, even though winds may be less than hurricane force.

Wind Advisory

A Wind Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 31 to 39 mph for an hour or more AND/OR wind gusts of 46 to 57 mph for any duration.

Extreme Wind Warning

An Extreme Wind Warning is issued for surface winds of 100 knots (115 MPH) or greater associated with non-convective, downslope, derecho (NOT associated with a tornado), or sustained hurricane winds are expected to occur within one hour.

Small Craft Advisory

An advisory issued by coastal and Great Lakes Weather Forecast Offices (WFO) for areas included in the Coastal Waters Forecast or Nearshore Marine Forecast (NSH) products. Thresholds governing the issuance of small craft advisories are specific to geographic areas. A Small Craft Advisory may also be issued when sea or lake ice exists that could be hazardous to small boats. There is no precise definition of a small craft. Any vessel that may be adversely affected by Small Craft Advisory criteria should be considered a small craft. Other considerations include the experience of the vessel operator, and the type, overall size, and sea worthiness of the vessel.

Gale Warning

A warning of sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph) inclusive, either predicted or occurring, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.

Gale Watch

A watch for an increased risk of a gale force wind event for sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, of 34 knots (39 mph) to 47 knots (54 mph), but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain.

Storm Warning

A warning of sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, in the range of 48 knots (55 mph) to 63 knots (73 mph) inclusive, either predicted or occurring, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.

Storm Watch

A watch for an increased risk of a storm force wind event for sustained surface winds, or frequent gusts, of 48 knots (55 mph) to 63 knots (73 mph), but its occurrence, location, and/or timing is still uncertain.

Hurricane Force Wind Warning

A warning for sustained winds, or frequent gusts, of 64 knots (74 mph) or greater, either predicted or occurring, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.

Special Marine Warning

(SMW) A warning product issued for potentially hazardous weather conditions usually of short duration (up to 2 hours) producing sustained marine thunderstorm winds or associated gusts of 34 knots or greater; and/or hail 3/4 inch or more in diameter; and/or waterspouts affecting areas included in a Coastal Waters Forecast, a Nearshore Marine Forecast, or an Great Lakes Open Lakes Forecast that is not adequately covered by existing marine warnings. Also used for short duration mesoscale events such as a strong cold front, gravity wave, squall line, etc., lasting less than 2 hours and producing winds or gusts of 34 knots or greater.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch

This is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for the development of severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area. A severe thunderstorm by definition is a thunderstorm that produces one inch hail or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour. The size of the watch can vary depending on the weather situation. They are usually issued for a duration of 4 to 8 hours. They are normally issued well in advance of the actual occurrence of severe weather. During the watch, people should review severe thunderstorm safety rules and be prepared to move a place of safety if threatening weather approaches.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning

This is issued when either a severe thunderstorm is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or a spotter reports a thunderstorm producing hail one inch or larger in diameter and/or winds equal or exceed 58 miles an hour; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. Severe thunderstorms can produce tornadoes with little or no advance warning. Lightning frequency is not a criteria for issuing a severe thunderstorm warning. They are usually issued for a duration of one hour. They can be issued without a Severe Thunderstorm Watch being already in effect.

Tornado Watch

A Tornado Watch is issued when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that they will occur. It only means they are possible. Severe thunderstorms are defined as, winds of 58 mph or higher AND/OR Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.

Tornado Warning

This is issued when a tornado is indicated by the WSR-88D radar or sighted by spotters; therefore, people in the affected area should seek safe shelter immediately. They can be issued without a Tornado Watch being already in effect. They are usually issued for a duration of around 30 minutes.

Tropical Storm Watch

A Tropical Storm Watch is issued when a tropical cyclone containing winds of 34 to 63 kt (39 to 73 mph) or higher poses a possible threat, generally within 48 hours. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding. The watch does not mean that tropical storm conditions will occur. It only means that these conditions are possible.

Tropical Storm Warning

A Tropical Storm Warning is issued when sustained winds of 34 to 63 kt (39 to 73 mph) or higher associated with a tropical cyclone are expected in 36 hours or less. These winds may be accompanied by storm surge, coastal flooding, and/or river flooding.

Coastal Flood Watch

Flooding with significant impacts is possible. Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Watches are issued using the Coastal/Lakeshore Hazard Message (CFW) product.

Coastal Flood Warning

A Flooding that will pose a serious threat to life and property is occurring, imminent or highly likely. Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Warnings are issued using the Coastal/Lakeshore Hazard Message (CFW) product.

Coastal Flood Advisory

Minor flooding is possible (i.e., over and above normal high tide levels. Coastal/Lakeshore Flood Advisories are issued using the Coastal/Lakeshore Hazard Message (CFW) product.

Flash Flood Watch

A Flash Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flash flooding. It does not mean that flash flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flash Flood Warning

A Flash Flood Warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent or occurring.

Flood Watch

A Flood Watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Warning

A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

River Flood Watch

A River Flood Watch is issued when river flooding is possible at one or more forecast points along a river.

River Flood Warning

A River Flood Warning is issued when river flooding is occurring or imminent at one or more forecast points along a river.

Excessive Heat Watch

Issued by the National Weather Service when heat indices in excess of 105ºF (41ºC) during the day combined with nighttime low temperatures of 80ºF (27ºC) or higher are forecast to occur for two consecutive days.

Excessive Heat Warning

Issued within 12 hours of the onset of the following criteria: heat index of at least 105°F for more than 3 hours per day for 2 consecutive days, or heat index more than 115°F for any period of time.

Heat Advisory

Issued within 12 hours of the onset of the following conditions: heat index of at least 105°F but less than 115°F for less than 3 hours per day, or nighttime lows above 80°F for 2 consecutive days.

Red Flag Warning

A term used by fire-weather forecasters to call attention to limited weather conditions of particular importance that may result in extreme burning conditions. It is issued when it is an on-going event or the fire weather forecaster has a high degree of confidence that Red Flag criteria will occur within 24 hours of issuance. Red Flag criteria occurs whenever a geographical area has been in a dry spell for a week or two, or for a shorter period , if before spring green-up or after fall color, and the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) is high to extreme and the following forecast weather parameters are forecasted to be met:
1) a sustained wind average 15 mph or greater
2) relative humidity less than or equal to 25 percent and
3) a temperature of greater than 75 degrees F.
In some states, dry lightning and unstable air are criteria. A Fire Weather Watch may be issued prior to the Red Flag Warning.

Go here to access the National Weather Service glossary, the source of these definitions.

MESH CoalitionComment
Tick Awareness in the U.S.

Tick Overview

Warmer temperatures means more ticks are finding host to bite and latch onto. Tick exposure can occur year-round, but ticks are most active during warmer months (April-September). According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, the prevalence of tickborne diseases has been generally been increasing since 2004. Of the many different tick species found throughout the world, only a select few bite and transmit disease to people. Ticks are generally found near the ground, in brushy or wooded areas. They can’t jump or fly. Instead, they climb tall grasses or shrubs and wait for a potential host to brush against them. When this happens, they climb onto the host and seek a site for attachment.

Of the ticks that bite people, different species of ticks transmit different diseases. In the United States, some ticks carry pathogens that can cause human disease, including:

  • Anaplasmosis is transmitted to humans by tick bites primarily from the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) in the northeastern and upper midwestern U.S. and the western blacklegged tick (Ixodes pacificus) along the Pacific coast.

  • Babesiosis is caused by microscopic parasites that infect red blood cells. Most human cases of babesiosis in the U.S. are caused by Babesia microti. Babesia microti is transmitted by the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and is found primarily in the northeast and upper midwest.

  • Borrelia mayonii infection has recently been described as a cause of illness in the upper midwestern United States. It has been found in blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Borrelia mayonii is a new species and is the only species besides B. burgdorferi known to cause Lyme disease in North America.

  • Borrelia miyamotoi infection has recently been described as a cause of illness in the U.S. It is transmitted by the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and has a range similar to that of Lyme disease.

  • Bourbon virus infection has been identified in a limited number patients in the Midwest and southern United States. At this time, we do not know if the virus might be found in other areas of the United States.

  • Colorado tick fever is caused by a virus transmitted by the Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni). It occurs in the the Rocky Mountain states at elevations of 4,000 to 10,500 feet.

  • Ehrlichiosis is transmitted to humans by the lone star tick (Ambylomma americanum), found primarily in the southcentral and eastern U.S.

  • Heartland virus cases have been identified in the Midwestern and southern United States. Studies suggest that Lone Star ticks can transmit the virus. It is unknown if the virus may be found in other areas of the U.S.

  • Lyme disease is transmitted by the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) in the northeastern U.S. and upper midwestern U.S. and the western blacklegged tick (Ixodes pacificus) along the Pacific coast.

  • Powassan disease is transmitted by the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the groundhog tick (Ixodes cookei). Cases have been reported primarily from northeastern states and the Great Lakes region.

  • Rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis is transmitted to humans by the Gulf Coast tick (Amblyomma maculatum).

  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is transmitted by the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni), and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sangunineus) in the U.S. The brown dog tick and other tick species are associated with RMSF in Central and South America.

  • STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness) is transmitted via bites from the lone star tick (Ambylomma americanum), found in the southeastern and eastern U.S.

  • Tickborne relapsing fever (TBRF) is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected soft ticks. TBRF has been reported in 15 states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming and is associated with sleeping in rustic cabins and vacation homes.

  • Tularemia is transmitted to humans by the dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), the wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni), and the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum). Tularemia occurs throughout the U.S.

  • 364D rickettsiosis (Rickettsia phillipi, proposed) is transmitted to humans by the Pacific Coast tick (Dermacentor occidentalis ticks). This is a new disease that has been found in California.

Regions Where Ticks Live

Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention Data Map

American Dog Tick-Dermacentor Variabilis

Where found: Widely distributed east of the Rocky Mountains. Also occurs in limited areas on the Pacific Coast.
Transmits: Tularemia and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
Comments: The highest risk of being bitten occurs during spring and summer. Dog ticks are sometimes called wood ticks. Adult females are most likely to bite humans.

Blacklegged Tick-Ixodes Scapularis

Where found: Widely distributed across the eastern United States.
Transmits: Borrelia burgdorferi and B. mayonii (which cause Lyme disease), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (anaplasmosis), B. miyamotoi disease (a form of relapsing fever), Ehrlichia muris eauclairensis (ehrlichiosis), Babesia microti (babesiosis), and Powassan virus (Powassan virus disease).
Comments: The greatest risk of being bitten exists in the spring, summer, and fall. However, adults may be out searching for a host any time winter temperatures are above freezing. Stages most likely to bite humans are nymphs and adult females.

Brown Dog Tick-Rhipicephalus Sanguineus

Where found: Worldwide.
Transmits: Rocky Mountain spotted fever (in the southwestern U.S. and along the U.S.-Mexico border).
Comments: Dogs are the primary host for the brown dog tick in each of its life stages, but the tick may also bite humans or other mammals.

Gulf Coast Tick-Amblyomma Maculatum

Where found: Coastal areas of the U.S. along the Atlantic coast and the Gulf of Mexico.
Transmits: Rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis, a form of spotted fever.
Comments: Larvae and nymphs feed on birds and small rodents, while adult ticks feed on deer and other wildlife. Adult ticks have been associated with transmission of R. parkeri to humans.

Lone Star Tick-Amblyomma Americanum

Where found: Widely distributed in the southeastern and eastern United States.
Transmits: Ehrlichia chaffeensis and Ehrlichia ewingii (which cause human ehrlichiosis), Heartland virus, tularemia, and STARI.
Comments: A very aggressive tick that bites humans. The adult female is distinguished by a white dot or “lone star” on her back. Lone star tick saliva can be irritating; redness and discomfort at a bite site does not necessarily indicate an infection. The nymph and adult females most frequently bite humans and transmit disease.

Rocky Mountain Wood Tick-Dermacentor Andersoni

Where found: Rocky Mountain states and southwestern Canada from elevations of 4,000 to 10,500 feet.
Transmits: Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado tick fever, and tularemia.
Comments: Adult ticks feed primarily on large mammals. Larvae and nymphs feed on small rodents. Adult ticks are primarily associated with pathogen transmission to humans.
Western Blacklegged Tick-Ixodes Pacificus

Where found: Along the Pacific coast of the U.S., particularly northern California.
Transmits: Anaplasmosis and Lyme disease.
Comments: Nymphs often feed on lizards, as well as other small animals. As a result, rates of infection are usually low (~1%) in adults. Stages most likely to bite humans are nymphs and adult females.

Preventing Tick Bites

Before You Go Outdoors

  • Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or even on animals. Spending time outside walking your dog, camping, gardening, or hunting could bring you in close contact with ticks. Many people get ticks in their own yard or neighborhood.

  • Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing and camping gear and remain protective through several washings. Alternatively, you can buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.

  • Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. EPA’s helpful search tool can help you find the product that best suits your needs. Always follow product instructions. Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.

  • Avoid Contact with Ticks

    • Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter.

    • Walk in the center of trails.

After You Come Indoors

Check your clothing for ticks. Ticks may be carried into the house on clothing. Any ticks that are found should be removed. Tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing after you come indoors. If the clothes are damp, additional time may be needed. If the clothes require washing first, hot water is recommended. Cold and medium temperature water will not kill ticks.

Examine gear and pets. Ticks can ride into the home on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine pets, coats, and daypacks.

Shower soon after being outdoors. Showering within two hours of coming indoors has been shown to reduce your risk of getting Lyme disease and may be effective in reducing the risk of other tickborne diseases. Showering may help wash off unattached ticks and it is a good opportunity to do a tick check.

Check your body for ticks after being outdoors. Conduct a full body check upon return from potentially tick-infested areas, including your own backyard. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body. Check these parts of your body and your child’s body for ticks:

  • Under the arms

  • In and around the ears

  • Inside belly button

  • Back of the knees

  • In and around the hair

  • Between the legs

  • Around the waist

Before You Go Outdoors

  • Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or even on animals. Spending time outside walking your dog, camping, gardening, or hunting could bring you in close contact with ticks. Many people get ticks in their own yard or neighborhood.

  • Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing and camping gear and remain protective through several washings. Alternatively, you can buy permethrin-treated clothing and gear.

  • Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone. EPA’s helpful search tool can help you find the product that best suits your needs. Always follow product instructions. Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under 3 years old.

  • Avoid Contact with Ticks

    • Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter.

    • Walk in the center of trails.

Preventing ticks on your pets

Tick bites on dogs may be hard to detect. Signs of tickborne disease may not appear for 7-21 days or longer after a tick bite, so watch your dog closely for changes in behavior or appetite if you suspect that your pet has been bitten by a tick.

Talk to your veterinarian about:

  • The best tick prevention products for your dog

  • Tickborne diseases in your area

To further reduce the chances that a tick bite will make your dog sick:

  • Check your pets for ticks daily, especially after they spend time outdoors.

  • If you find a tick on your pet, remove it right away.

  • Reduce tick habitat in your yard.

Tick Removal

If you find a tick attached to your skin, simply remove the tick as soon as possible. There are several tick removal devices on the market, but a plain set of fine-tipped tweezers works very well.

  1. Use clean, fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

  2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this happens, remove the mouth-parts with tweezers. If you cannot remove the mouth easily with tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

  3. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

  4. Never crush a tick with your fingers. Dispose of a live tick by

    • Putting it in alcohol,

    • Placing it in a sealed bag/container,

    • Wrapping it tightly in tape, or

    • Flushing it down the toilet.

If you develop a rash or fever within several weeks of removing a tick, see your doctor:

  • Tell the doctor about your recent tick bite,

  • When the bite occurred, and

  • Where you most likely acquired the tick.

Tick Resources

CDC offers free tick and tickborne disease resources. Order here.

MESH CoalitionComment
Critical Blood Shortage-Urgent Donations Needed

Nationwide, blood donations decreased during the long months of COVID-19 quarantines due to various health related concerns, restrictions, and multitudes of other COVID-19 related hurdles. Blood centers are urgently asking for communities to donate blood to maintain supply levels for healthcare facilities. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood. And according to the American Red Cross, a single donation can save up to three lives. Those in healthcare know that the summer months can potentially bring increases in trauma cases and the need for increased supplies of blood. With the already low blood levels coming out of the COVID-19 pandemic and the summer months already here, the American Red Cross is urging individuals to help overcome a severe blood shortage by giving blood, platelets or plasma this summer.

Donors are strongly urged to give now to help ensure lifesaving blood products are available for patients. Hospital demand continues to outpace donations, and your help is vital. The Red Cross needs blood donors of all types, especially type O, & platelet donors to overcome this severe blood shortage. The Red Cross is following FDA blood donation eligibility guidance for those who receive a COVID-19 vaccination. If you receive a vaccine, knowing the name of the manufacturer (e.g. Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson) is important in determining your eligibility. In most cases, there’s no deferral time if you receive a vaccine (ARC).

Ways to help spread awareness about donating blood with the American Red Cross can be found below.

Help amplify messages from Red Cross social media channels:

Facebook:     American Red Cross Blood Donors

Twitter:          @RedCross

Instagram:     @AmericanRedCross

 Post messages on your social media:

The messages and downloadable graphics below are for use on social networks and may be used to guide online conversations in your own words. Feel free to tag our social media accounts in your posts.

With hospital blood needs outpacing blood donations, the Red Cross urges everyone to help overcome a severe blood shortage.

3 easy ways to help:

1. Sign up to give blood, platelets or plasma now: rcblood.org/donate 🗓️

2. Ask a friend to join you 💬

3. Spread the word 📢

  • Please help! Rising trauma cases, organ transplants & elective surgeries are depleting the US blood supply. The Red Cross urgently needs blood donors of all types, especially type O, & platelet donors to overcome this severe blood shortage. Sign up at rcblood.org/donate.

  • ALERT! With hospital blood use up, the Red Cross is experiencing a severe blood shortage. As a result, some elective surgeries are being delayed until the blood supply stabilizes, delaying crucial patient care. Your help is needed! Sign up to give 🩸 ASAP: rcblood.org/donate

  • O SO NEEDED! With less than 1/2 a day supply of type O blood in recent weeks, the Red Cross has an 🚨emergency🚨 need for type O blood - the most needed blood group by hospitals. If you're type O, patients need your help. Sign up to give blood ASAP at rcblood.org/donate

  • The Red Cross has an emergency need for platelets, the clotting portion of blood. Platelets must be transfused within 5 days of donation & nearly 50% of platelet donations are given to cancer patients. Your platelet donation is urgently needed. Sign up at rcblood.org/Platelet

MESH CoalitionComment
Participate in the 2021 National Pediatric Readiness Assessment May-July 2021

What is the National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP)? 

The National Pediatric Readiness Project is a multi-phase quality improvement (QI) initiative to ensure that all U.S. emergency departments (EDs) have the essential guidelines and resources in place to provide effective emergency care to children. The project is supported by the American College of Emergency Physicians, the Emergency Nurses Association, the Federal Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for Children Program, and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

What is the 2021 NPRP Assessment? 

The NPRP Assessment is a national assessment of America’s EDs to determine progress in pediatric readiness, identify existing gaps, promote quality improvement (QI) efforts in hospital EDs around the country, develop national collaboratives to address common and critical gaps, and identify best practices. 

Participating in the 20201 NPRP Assessment is EASY!

How does my emergency department (ED) participate in the NPRP assessment? 

ED nurse managers will receive several postal and email notifications with a link to the web-based assessment. Since only one NPRP assessment per ED can be completed, we encourage you to collaborate with your ED leadership to participate in the NPRP assessment. ED nurse managers who complete the NPRP assessment will immediately receive: 

1. An ED pediatric readiness score from 0 – 100.

2. The average pediatric readiness score of EDs of similar pediatric volume

3. The average pediatric readiness score of all participating ED’s to use as a benchmark

4. An ED Gap Report to target efforts for improvement in pediatric readiness

 Help your community by improving pediatric readiness! 

Why is participation in the 2021 NPRP assessment important for ED managers? 

The NPRP assessment helps ED personnel to be better prepared to provide quality care for all patients of all ages by evaluating the QI process of EDs over time. Hospitals with high ED readiness scores demonstrate a 4-fold lower rate of mortality for children with critical illness than those with lower readiness scores; thus, improving pediatric readiness improves outcomes for children and their families.

Hospital leadership, healthcare administrators, and ED personnel can demonstrate commitment to their communities by improving pediatric readiness. Encourage participation in the assessment to ensure that all EDs are pediatric ready! 

For more information visit www.pediatricreadiness.org 

Less Than a Day’s Supply of Blood Now on Indiana Shelves

Indianapolis – Monday, April 12, 2021 – Versiti Blood Center of Indiana is issuing an emergency appeal for blood donations as communities throughout the state face a potential crisis with blood supplies dropping to critically low levels. 

“Versiti Blood Center of Indiana is urgently seeking help from the public. We need to do all we can to ensure that Indiana hospitals have the blood they need for their patients,” said Dr. Dan Waxman, vice president of transfusion medicine and senior medical director at Versiti. “As more people are getting vaccinated and getting out of their homes, attention has shifted away from blood donation. On top of that, drives at schools and businesses, which are typically Versiti’s largest source of blood donations this time of year, have been cancelled. All of this is creating a crisis situation – a shortage of much-needed blood.” 

In Indiana, the state’s blood supply has dropped to a critically low level, with less than a day’s supply of life-saving blood on shelves to supply Versiti’s more than 90 hospital partners throughout the state. Ideally, Versiti strives for a three-day supply of blood available to its partner hospitals. 

In the first quarter alone, compared to a typical year, Versiti Blood Centers is down more than 40 percent in donations – or nearly 20,000 units of blood – from schools and businesses. 

Blood donors are needed now to help ensure life-saving blood is available for Hoosiers who need it. One donation of blood, which takes less than one hour, can help save up to three lives. 

O-negative and O-positive blood donors are most needed now. O-negative and O-positive blood is the universal blood type, meaning donations can be transfused to all patients, including trauma victims, cancer patients and those undergoing surgery. 

Hoosiers are needed to extend the generous gift of life to neighbors who need help and donate blood at a Versiti Blood Center of Indiana donor center nearest them: 

• INDIANAPOLIS: 3450 N. Meridian St.

• FISHERS: 11005 Allisonville Road

• CARMEL: 726 Adams St., Suite 150

• GREENWOOD: 8739 U.S. 31 South

• TERRE HAUTE: 2021 S. Third St.

• LAFAYETTE: 2200 Elmwood Ave., Suite D-16

Indiana residents can also make an appointment to donate at a local community blood drive in their area. Times, dates and locations of upcoming local drives can be found online https://donate.indiana.versiti.org. Interested donors should click the “Schedule to Donate” tab to find the nearest drive to them. 

To help ensure donor safety, everyone entering Versiti facilities must wear a mask and have their temperature taken. All Versiti donation locations are practicing social distancing and closely adhering to FDA and CDC cleaning and disinfecting protocols. 

Donating blood takes about an hour. Anyone age 17 or older in good health who meets eligibility requirements is encouraged to give. Parental consent is required for donors age 16 to donate blood. Donors should bring a photo ID that includes their birth date. 

Appointments are encouraged at any of Versiti’s six Indiana donor centers or at any local community blood drive. Walk-ins are always welcome. To schedule an appointment to donate blood, call 1-317-916-5150 or visit Versiti online at versiti.org/Indiana

MESH CoalitionComment
MESH Grand Rounds | May 4, 2021

“Breaking the Great Myths of Managing Mass Casualty Incidents” by Mauricio Lynn, MD, FACS, FSCCM

Dr. Lynn finished his Medical School at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. He trained in General Surgery at Tel Aviv University/Sheba Medical Center in Israel and did Trauma/Critical Care fellowship at the Ryder Trauma Center in Miami, Florida.

Dr. Lynn is a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the Israeli Military where he served for 18 years. His main positions were as Flight Surgeon with the Israeli Air Force Special Forces, Medical Commander of the Israeli Air Rescue and Medical Evacuation Unit (Unit 669) and Head of Trauma Branch for the Israeli Armed Forces. Dr. Lynn was the Medical Commander of Operation Solomon, the largest airborne humanitarian rescue mission in history, Commander of the Israeli medical team deployed to Nairobi in the aftermath of the bombings of the American embassy, team Commander and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of 2 Israeli field hospitals deployed to Turkey in the aftermath of the1999 earthquakes and was deployed to Haiti in the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake as the CMO of the University of Miami field hospital in Port Au Prince.

Dr. Lynn was in charge of policy making for field trauma care for the military and in charge of disaster preparedness of all Israeli hospitals, working in conjunction with the Ministry of Health.

Currently, Dr. Lynn is a Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami and practices as a Trauma Surgeon and Critical Care Specialist at the Ryder Trauma Center. Dr. Lynn served as disaster consultant for the Joint Commission for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO), Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Denver Health Medical Center in preparation for the Democratic National Convention in 2008 and consultant for the Republican National Convention, in Tampa, FL, in 2012. Dr. Lynn was the chair of the Trauma Disaster Committee for the Florida Department of Health.

Dr. Lynn is the ATLS pillar of Florida Committee of Trauma, member of the American College of Surgeons, Eastern Association for Surgery of Trauma, Society of Critical Care Medicine, Pan American Trauma Society and the World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WADEM), serving on the Board of Directors until recently.

Dr. Lynn is the author of the disaster training course “Operational Response to Mass Casualties – ORMAC”, the only medical disaster course approved by the Department of Homeland Security in the USA. He is also the author of the new PRIDE course (Planning and Response Integration for Disaster and Emergencies).

During this presentation, attendees will learn to:

  • Review epidemiology of mass casualty incidents;

  • Discuss the relevant triage criteria;

  • Learn the management principles of multiple simultaneous injuries.

CME/CEU credits are available.

All events in the MESH GrandRounds Series are FREE and open to the public.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

MESH CoalitionComment
MESH Grand Rounds | March 24, 2021

“COVID-19 and Climate Change: Lessons Learned and Implications for Disaster Management for the Coming Decade” by Jeff Schlegelmilch, MPH, MBA,

Jeff Schlegelmilch is a Research Scholar and the Director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University’s Earth Institute. In this role he oversees the operations and strategic planning for the center. Before becoming director, he served as the center’s deputy director for more than five years. Click here to learn more and to register

MESH Coalition
Indiana FSSA: Expedited Waiver Eligibility

The COVID-19 pandemic has created an endless amount of unprecedented changes and forced millions to adapt to their new circumstances, with little preparation. It has changed the way healthcare providers administer their care and how they interact with their patients. Home care and community based services that are provided to particular groups of citizens needed to continue their care and have been finding ways to maintain their services during this at-risk time. With services and request possibly not available, moved to online, or slowed down because of the pandemic the need to adapt quickly was needed. Indiana Family and Social Services Administration has done their best to help in this effort by streamlining processes and waivers to help with various citizen needs. By helping managing these needs, less individuals will need to be in a nursing care facilities. Key information, guidance, and resources for Indiana FSSA waivers and providers can be found below.

Expedited Waiver Eligibility

Some home- and community-based services providers are currently able to complete an expedited Medicaid and Aged and Disabled waiver application for Hoosiers who fit certain criteria. Individuals or their representatives who contact one of the providers listed below, complete an application and meet eligibility requirements, will immediately be granted Medicaid and A&D waiver eligibility. The goal of this pilot program is for home-based services to start within 10 days of approval. Expediting the eligibility process is intended to help more Hoosiers receive the services they need in their homes instead of needing to move into a nursing facility.

Services provided

Many aging individuals want to live at home as long as they can and sometimes need extra support to remain at home. Some individuals want to return to home or to a community-based environment by leaving a nursing facility, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Medicaid-funded home- and community- based services and traditional health services include broad support services such as:

  • Attendant Care can provide hands-on care to assist in activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, mobility, etc.

  • Care Management is a collaborative process to assess, facilitate, plan, advocate, coordinate care, and evaluate the person’s needs with service or community resource options.

  • Community Transition Service can help pay for items that would be needed to allow someone to move out of a nursing facility and back home. This could include furniture, initial deposits, clothes, personal care items, etc.

  • Health Care Coordination helps connect and coordinate both social and clinical services such as nutrition counseling and doctor visits.

  • Home and Community Assistance can help with many daily tasks that do not require hands-on personal care such as cleaning, cooking, errands, help with paying bills, etc.

  • Home-delivered Meals can deliver nutritious meals to the home.

  • Home Modifications can provide accessibility updates to homes. This can include items such as ramps, bathroom remodels, and stair lifts.

  • Personal Emergency Response is technology that monitors for falls and notifies authorities if one occurs.

  • Pest Control this service can be utilized to make sure the home environment is free from insect infestation.

  • Prior Authorization Home Health can provide needed skilled and unskilled home health needs through the prior authorization process.

  • Respite Care pays for a person to come into the home to provide temporary relief to family members caring for a loved one at home.

  • Structured Family Caregiving allows families to be paid for providing personal care services. The Area Agency on Aging may also provide training, education and technology resources.

Eligibility criteria and how to apply

Individuals wishing to apply for Expedited Waiver Eligibility must be eligible for Medicaid and the A&D waiver. Eligibility criteria includes:

  • Age 65 or older

  • Is not already receiving Medicaid benefits

  • Has individual income of $2,349 or less

  • Has countable assets under $2,000

  • Requires assistance with at least three activities of daily living such as help with eating, dressing, toileting, etc.; or has a substantial skill need

  • Meets functional criteria, also known as “nursing facility level of care” for the A&D Waiver. These conditions can be found here.

  • Does not have complex financial assets that must be reviewed in detail to determine eligibility

To apply please call one of the providers listed below that serves your area and ask about applying for Expedited Waiver Eligibility.

Participating providers

The following providers are approved to administer the Expedited Waiver Eligibility application and provide real-time approval. Please contact the provider in your area and they will be able to assist you with application and answer questions about additional services that may be appropriate for you or your loved one.

Caregiver Homes of Indiana, Inc.
5975 Castle Creek Parkway N. Drive, Suite 435
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Counties served: Boone, Clark, Elkhart, Floyd, Gibson, Hamilton, Hancock, Harrison, Hendricks, Jasper, Johnson, Kosciusko, Lake, LaPorte, Marion, Marshall, Morgan, Newton, Perry, Porter, Posey, Pulaski, Scott, Shelby, Spencer, St. Joseph, Starke, Vanderburgh, Warrick
Website: caregiverhomes.com

CICOA
8440 Woodfield Crossing B
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Counties served: Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Johnson, Marion, Morgan, Shelby
Phone: 317-254-5465
Email: mbough@cicoa.org

Independent Adult Day South
2225 Shelby Street
Indianapolis IN, 46203
Counties served: Marion
Phone: 317-360-0070
Email: info@adultday.com

LifeSpan Resources
LifeSpan Resources, Inc.
PO Box 995
New Albany, IN 47151-0995
Counties served: Clark, Floyd, Harrison, Scott
Phone: 812-206-7912
Email: pdewees@LSR14.org

Northwest Indiana Community Action
5240 Fountain Drive
Crown Point, IN 46307
Counties served: Jasper, Lake, Newton, Porter, Pulaski, Starke
Phone: 219-794-1869
Email: kmargis@nwi-ca.org

Oasis at 56th
4940 W 56th St.
Indianapolis, IN 46254
Counties served: Marion
Phone: 317- 297-3115
Email: nursing@oasis-56.com

REAL Services
1151 S. Michigan Street
South Bend,  IN 46601
Counties served: Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaPorte, Marshall, St. Joseph
Phone: 574-284-7107, 800-552-2916
Email: info@realservices.org

Silver Birch Hammond
5620 Sohl Avenue
Hammond, IN 46320
Counties served: Lake
Phone:  219-228-5565
Email:  nikisha.marshall@silverbirchliving.com

Silver Birch Evansville
475 South Governor Street
Evansville, IN 47713
Counties served: Vanderburgh
Phone:  812-962-8378
Email:  makenzie.weintraut@silverbirchliving.com

Southwest Indiana Regional Council on Aging
16 West Virginia Street, PO Box 3938
Evansville, IN  47737-3938
Counties served: Gibson, Perry, Posey, Spencer, Vanderburgh, Warrick
Phone: 912-464-7800
Email: adrc@swirca.org

MESH CoalitionComment
Eskenazi Health’s Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative (HHHC)

Over the past decade, residents of Indianapolis have experienced substantial challenges related to violence and addiction. Where violence and addiction are present, the consequences ripple throughout the community resulting in chronic, multi-generational trauma. Systems of support – health care providers, corrections staff, educators, faith leaders and other community leaders – often find themselves in a position where they lack the skills to work through their own secondary and personal traumas, leaving them at risk for many of the same challenges faced by their patients, clients, students and parishioners.

Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative, a new Eskenazi Health-led program in partnership with Center for Mind-Body Medicine and funded, in part, by the Herbert Simon Family Foundation, aims to equip the community with skills proven to aid in alleviating trauma and secondary trauma. Using Center for Mind-Body Medicine’s evidence-based model, the program teaches participants how to use self-care and group support as tools for stress- and trauma-relief along with how to build resilience.

The program consists of two parts for trainees. Individuals will first go through the Professional Training Program and then follow that up with the Advanced Training Program. After the two-part training, individuals will be able provide people who are struggling with stress, anxiety and depression with instruction in basic stress- and trauma-relief services through mind-body skills groups, self-care workshops and in other appropriate settings.

 CMBM Professional Training Program for The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative 

 What is Mind-Body Medicine? 

Mind-body medicine is based on the scientific understanding of the inextricable connection among our thoughts, sensations and feelings, and our mind, body, and spirit – between ourselves and the social and natural world in which we live. It focuses on the interactions between mind and body; and the powerful ways in which emotional, mental, social and spiritual factors can directly relieve stress and improve health. It is used with individuals, groups, and entire populations. 

Mind-body skills are scientifically validated to reduce stress and restore physical and psychological health. The mind-body approach heals individual trauma and builds community-wide resilience. 

The Center for Mind-Body Medicine’s (CMBM) approach to wellness is grounded in practical, evidence-based skills for self-care, nutrition, self-awareness, and group support. It emphasizes an approach that respects and enhances each person’s capacity for self-knowledge and self-care. 

What’s the Science Behind It? 

Mind-body approaches use the conscious mind to directly affect the workings of the brain and the rest of the body. The techniques exert their effect on the hypothalamus, the switching station in the brain, which exercises control over the autonomic nervous system (which controls heart rate, blood pressure etc.), the endocrine (glandular) system and the immune system. 

The scientific literature on these approaches is now rich and robust. Studies dating from the late 1960’s have shown the power of mind-body techniques to balance the over-activity of the sympathetic branch of the autonomic nervous system (“the fight or flight” and “stress” responses) which is implicated in many physical and emotional diseases and conditions, with parasympathetic nervous system stimulation that promotes relaxation. 

More recently, these techniques have been demonstrated to create beneficial changes in many of the body’s physiological responses (including blood pressure, stress hormone levels, pain response and immune functioning) and to make a significant clinical difference in conditions as diverse as hypertension, HIV, cancer, chronic pain, and insomnia as well as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

What is the Center for Mind-Body Medicine? 

The Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM) was founded in 1991 by James S. Gordon, MD, a former researcher at the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health, a clinical professor of Psychiatry and Family Medicine at Georgetown Medical School, and former chair of the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine Policy. Over the last 30 years, CMBM’s 160 global faculty members and 5,000 trained clinicians, educators, and community leaders have successfully brought programs of self-care and group support to hospitals and clinics, schools and universities, and to social service and community-based organizations around the world - particularly to populations touched by conflict, terrorism and natural disasters such as Bosnia, Kosovo, Israel, Gaza, Haiti, hurricane-ravaged southern Louisiana, Houston, and Puerto Rico, and with U.S. soldiers and veterans. Mind-Body Skills Groups (MBSGs) are CMBM’s signature small group model for teaching and learning self-care skills. CMBM Professional Training Program for The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative 

MBSGs have repeatedly, in studies published in leading, peer-reviewed journals (including the first randomized controlled trial of any intervention with war-traumatized children), reduced the percentage of war-traumatized children and adults who qualify as having Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) by 80% or more. Published research also demonstrates statistically significant decreases in depression, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, sleep disturbances, and stress hormones, and increases in quality of life. 

CMBM’s work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Atlantic and on CBS 60 Minutes

What is this training program about? 

The Center for Mind-Body Medicine (CMBM) and Eskenazi Health have created the Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative (HHHC) with the goal to bring an evidence-based program of population-wide healing and resilience-building to Indiana. The vision of HHHC is to address the psycho-social-spiritual needs of those on the front lines of community support. This Initiative will equip the community at large with skills proven to aid in alleviating trauma and secondary trauma, increasing self-regulation, and building resilience and hope for the future. 

The Collaborative is organizing and implementing a comprehensive program of training, guidance and support for 140 mental health counselors, therapists, emergency first responders, teachers, school counselors, community health workers, and religious, spiritual and community leaders as they learn and integrate the CMBM model into their existing programs and services. In addition to the Collaborative partners, the program also aims to engage other local organizations that provide direct health, behavioral health, educational and spiritual services to the area’s most impacted children and adults. 

CMBM’s pioneering model is grounded in self-care and group support. It teaches participants a number of practical, easy-to-learn techniques, including: 

● several types of meditation 

● guided imagery 

● biofeedback and Autogenics 

● self-expression in words, drawings, and movement 

These techniques and the “Mind-Body Skills Groups” in which they are taught make use of people’s strengths; encourage them to experiment with their own abilities; enhance their sense of control; and are interesting and fun. 

The program uses a “train-the-trainer” approach. Participants first learn and practice the techniques on themselves, and then teach others in small, supportive Mind-Body Skills Groups, Self-Care Workshops, and individual and family sessions. This approach enables service providers to address their own stress, trauma and burnout, as well as help their communities. 

The training program consists of a three-phased curriculum, each setting the foundation for the next. As a condition of acceptance into the program, each participant must be able to commit to all three phases of the curriculum. CMBM Professional Training Program for The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative 

The first phase, the Professional Training Program, will be held September 30, October 1, 2 and October 5 & 6. More information about this training is described below. The second phase, the Advanced Training Program, is scheduled for *November 12, 13, 16, 17 and 18, 2020 and teaches participants how to deliver this group model to their clients, patients, students, friends and families. *This is the projected window for the Advanced Training Program, and the final dates will be announced no later than the Professional Training Program. 

Upon completion of these first two phases, trainees will participate in a third phase (Practicum) in which they will co-facilitate two 8 to 10-week Mind-Body Skills Groups (MBSG) with supervision. From there, a select group will then be prepared to lead the effort locally through participation in CMBM’s Certification Program and a Leadership Training Program. The selected local Leadership team establishes the foundation for a long-term, sustaining presence in the community. 

What happens at the Initial Professional Training Program (Sept 30, Oct 1, 2, 5 and 6, 2020)? 

CMBM’s Professional Training Program offers an introduction to mind-body skills within the group context and focuses on teaching participants how to use these skills in their own self-care and how to begin to integrate the approach and techniques into their ongoing work as clinicians, community health workers, social service case workers, clergy, teachers, counselors and other caregiving professionals. These simple, transformative skills are the ideal antidote to stress and burnout, and the perfect tools for the caregiver’s toolkit. 

The training includes extensive scientific material on the biology and physiology of stress and burnout and on the specific techniques used, as well as experiential work in an intensive, supportive small group. 

Over the course of the 5-day Professional Training, trainees will participate in large group plenary sessions in which senior CMBM faculty teach the science of mind-body medicine. Plenary presentations include: 

● Overview of the New Medicine 

● Introduction to Mind-Body Skills Groups 

● Biological Underpinnings of Mind-Body Therapies 

● Imagery 

● Mobilizing, Transforming, and Celebrating the Emotions 

● Genograms 

● Breathing, Physical Exercise and Movement 

● Trauma and Transformation 

● Spirituality and Healing 

● Body Awareness 

During the training program, trainees will also participate in eight Mind-Body Skills Groups in which they will learn one or two mind-body techniques (such as meditation, guided imagery, biofeedback, working with drawings, breathing and movement). The group combines the didactic learning, experiential learning, practice and group support. In the small supportive groups, led by CMBM faculty, trainees practice mind-body techniques and experience their effects personally. The small groups provide an opportunity for self-expression and mutual support. These experiences of self-care – experiencing one’s ability, for example, to lower blood pressure or decrease anxiety – enhance each person’s sense of self-CMBM Professional Training Program for The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative  efficacy and self-responsibility even as they provide direct physiological benefits. The groups also offer members support in making the major changes in lifestyle which are required to alter the course of chronic physical and emotional problems. This is not a therapy group! However, we find that sharing and connecting with others creates a wonderful learning environment, helping each individual become more self-aware and more engaged in their own self-care. 

Participants are never forced to share beyond their comfort level; but in order to share the techniques with patients and clients, it is crucial that they experience them first hand and “walk the talk”. Each group has approximately ten participants and one faculty member, and the group stays together throughout the program, learning together and often becoming friends for years to come. A majority of participants list the small group in post-program evaluations as their favorite part of the program! And understandably– this is the part that supports your own healing and self-care, and eventually that of your family, friends and patients.  

Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative: A Comprehensive Wellness Program for Our Communities 

 Eskenazi Health’s Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative (HHHC) is a multi-year initiative will build on an established partnership between Eskenazi Health and The Center for Mind Body Medicine (CMBM) to enhance the capacity of our community to address challenges of chronic stress and trauma. The program is being made possible, in part, by a grant from the Herbert Simon Family Foundation. During the multi-year project, thousands of local residents will be impacted by the expansion of CMBM’s in-depth, mind-body medicine training. The ongoing supervision and mentorship of 140 key staff from Eskenazi Health and collaborating organizations, as well as the development of a local leadership team will build a solid foundation to support the work for years to come and provide a program of population-wide healing and wellness that can be a model for similarly challenged cities across the United States. 

The proposed project includes the following components: 

Professional Training Program (PTP) – This initial five-day training provides a comprehensive introduction to CMBM’s approach through didactic instruction on the scientific basis for the model and small and large group experiences of mind-body techniques. The training includes in-depth material on the biology and psychology of stress and trauma as well as the specific evidence-based mind-body techniques used. 

Advanced Training Program (ATP) – This additional training (four to five days) is designed to help trainees deepen their experience and confidence with the skills learned during PTP, and equip them to utilize the skills with patients, clients, students and colleagues. It includes a combination of didactic lectures on implementing the model along with practicums in which trainees lead groups, teach the techniques, and receive support and feedback from senior CMBM faculty. 

Upon completion of the training, all trainees will be equipped to implement the CMBM model of self-care and group support in their work organizations during a Practicum phase. Trainees will be expected to lead Mind-Body skills groups and workshops for trauma-affected children and adults, community members, colleagues, clients, and students. They will also integrate the principles and practices of mind-body medicine into their work with individuals and families. Intensive supervision and mentorship will be provided to support new Trainees as they integrate the model into their work. 

After completion of the Practicum phase, the Collaborative will identify forty facilitators to participate in CMBM’s Certification program. This Certification process enhances their understanding of the model, strengthens their skills as a facilitator, and deepens their commitment to carry the work forward in the community. A subset of twenty of the most skilled Certified Facilitators will then complete Leadership and Supervision training, equipping them to provide supervision to local participants, and ensuring the sustainability and continued growth of the program. 

Standardized assessment tools will be used to evaluate the program’s impact on facilitators and Mind-Body skills group participants in the community. It is expected that facilitators and participants will experience decreased levels of depression, anxiety, and stress, with results that are maintained at a three-month follow-up. Research indicates that trauma, stress and violence feed off of each other, often with tragic results. Similarly, stress has been identified as a key risk factor for addiction. By teaching tangible skills to better manage stress, anxiety, and depression, the project addresses the key root causes of widespread addiction and violence in central Indiana and will be expected over time to contribute to significant reductions. The program will be carefully documented so as to become a replicable model throughout the country. 

 The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative: Training Participant Selection Criteria & Guidelines 

Participant Selection Criteria Guidelines 

Since space will be limited in this program, we have developed the following guidelines to help us select applicants who will be best positioned to help us achieve our goal of reach and sustainability. The Eskenazi Health Hoosier Heartland Healing Collaborative (HHHC) and CMBM will vet and select participants based on the following criteria. 

Applicants with the following qualities will be given priority for acceptance into the program. 

Program participants should: 

1. Be in a position to reach a significant number of people in the Greater Indianapolis area or the participant’s surrounding community 

2. Have the capacity to implement a group model in their normal service delivery to clients/patients/parishioners/students/colleagues 

3. Be eager to participate in the training – engaged, excited, willing to put in some energy 

4. Be able and interested in learning new skills 

5. Demonstrate a capacity for self-awareness 

6. Have the capacity to be self-reflective and open to new ideas 

7. Have the ability to be present to others without being reactionary 

8. Commit to 100% participation in each phase of the training program in which they are selected to participate 

9. Commit to co-facilitation of two rounds of 8-week mind-body skills groups (MBSGs) in the community and/or with colleagues 

10. Commit to co-lead one workshop introducing mind-body medicine to the community you serve 

Ideally, an even number of people (not less than 4) will represent each partner organization/coalition so that they may better support each other and enhance the commitment to long-term sustainability within their organization. Organizations should consider size, dispersal ratio within the organization, and their commitment to long-term engagement with the Collaborative and use of the Mind-Body Medicine Model when considering their attendance commitments. 

In some cases, it may be most efficient to organize a meeting with potential participants to elicit interest and address questions. 

It is essential that both the partner organization as well as the training participant is aware of and committed to the full scope of the program. See document “HHHC – Commitments of Trainees & Partner Organizations” 

It’s important to emphasize that the initial training is very experiential. This first training is for them, the trainees, to have the full immersive group experience rather than simply trying to understand the model cognitively. They will be learning from each other, deepening their own self-awareness and learning skills through large group lectures and small group participation. 

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NHCPC 2020 Canceled

After many months of very careful deliberation concerning the Novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its impact on the NHCPC 2020, the MESH Board of Directors and MESH staff have determined that in order to respect and maintain the health, safety and well-being of our attendees, industry partners and staff, the NHCPC 2020 scheduled to take place on December 1-3, 2020, in Las Vegas has been canceled.  We know that you are working tirelessly to respond to this virus and we support your efforts and are beyond grateful for all that you do.

Planning for the future

Thank you for being on the front lines of this pandemic and always putting others first! NHCPC looks forward to providing more educational and networking opportunities in the future – including the #NHCPC21! 

Now is the time to share what you would like to experience at #NHCPC21 by completing this 5 question survey. Insights from our highly respected conference attendees, speakers and industry partners are valued as we look to the future and making the 2021 conference the best yet! 

 Do you need further assistance?

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