Workforce Activation
Lessons Learned
Lessons Learned
- Defining an exact definition of an emergency based upon event characteristics is overwhelming but defining an emergency by the level of response needed can be much easier
- Use past events/experiences for planning
- Assume Call Out will occur within ICS and utilize existing ICS protocols to the degree possible
- Many Call Out action steps will happen concurrently (Call Out, Communication, Training, etc.)
- Be aware that not all events/emergencies will result in call out
- Plan for the financial repercussions and considerations of call out
- Develop a backup plan for activation call out in case of there is no electricity
- Prepare Division Directors to manage continuity of services along with loss of staff to the response effort
- Recognize how decision making occurs within a division and across divisions
- Anticipate scenarios such as multiple surge events occurring concurrently, routine contact
- modalities are unavailable, the normal cycle of activation and call-out has to be shortened due to a specific event, etc.
- Plan how to involve community based organizations and other external partners in the call-out plan, e.g. other health system entities, volunteers, etc.
- Multiple staff need to be assigned to each role on a team
- It is important to identify the person who will manage and maintain the call out (Workforce Activation Specialist)
- The Call Out process is complex and will dramatically impact day to day functions so testing the process is important

