Paterson MRC (Medical Reserve Corps)

The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) was founded by the federal government shortly after 9/11. The national system brings together people who have skills related to health care as well as citizen volunteers. They serve as a team during times of emergency or need in their own community. MRC units are trained and prepared to respond to emergencies and they provide education, outreach and various health services throughout the year. They function as part of their local emergency preparedness teams. MRC units supplement existing emergency and public health resources and agencies such as Red Cross, local public health, fire, police, and ambulance services. The result is a collaborative effort that is prepared for large scale public health crises. Each MRC conducts its role in the way that best suits the unique challenges for its area. In addition members can also choose to support communities in need in another area of the state or country, as many did during hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

The Medical Reserve Corps program office is headquartered in the Office of the U.S. Surgeon General. It functions as a clearinghouse for information and best practices to help communities establish, implement and maintain MRC units across the nation. The MRC Program Office sponsors an annual leadership conference, hosts a Web site, and coordinates with local, state, regional and national organizations and agencies to help communities achieve their local visions for public health and emergency preparedness. For more information about the MRC program, please visit the national website at www.medicalreservecorps.gov . Volunteers who wish to deploy as Federal volunteers can find out more info by clicking on the menu choice called MRC Deployment.

The Paterson Division of Health is currently looking for additional volunteers for our response team. In order to build a medical/administrative support team in the case of a large response, a variety of backgrounds are needed. The health department is looking for nurses, physicians, physician assistants, crisis counselors, and translators. General volunteers for support services are also needed for non emergency community health activities and programs. Volunteers must be 18 years old, live or work in Paterson, and be a U.S. Citizen.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP TODAY!

Below is a list training classes volunteers are encouraged to take prior to deployment.

Federal Training guidelines called MRC Core Competencies are available at www.medicalreservecorps.gov . Search using the keywords "MRC Core Competencies".