Important Documents

 By-laws for the Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps

 Article 1.

Section 1.  Name and Territorial Limits

1. The name of the organization shall be “Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps”, herein referred to as “WMRC”.
2. The WMRC shall be a non-profit organization, operated in compliance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

 Section 2. Geographic limits

1. WMRC shall be organized into a region located in North Worcester County including but not limited to 22 communities of north Worcester County: Ashburnham, Athol, Barre, Clinton, Fitchburg, Gardner, Hardwick, Hubbardston, Leominster, New Braintree, New Salem, Oakham, Orange, Petersham, Philipston, Princeton, Royalston, Rutland, Sterling, Templeton, Westminster, and Winchendon.

 Article 2.

Section 1.  Purposes

1. The purposes of the WMRC shall include but are not limited to protecting health, safety and overall well-being of the community during a public health and/or community disaster response through direct or indirect care and through educational activities.
2. To study, research, collect, compile and disseminate information about WMRC experience to federal, state and local government.
3. To monitor decision making and legislative processes of local, state and federal government or agencies as these activities relate to the WMRC and to keep the membership of the WMRC informed of these activities.
4. To coordinate the efforts and plans of the WMRC with other organizations having common goals and objectives.
5. To conduct promotional and educational activities in support of the WMRC program.
6. To solicit contributions and grants for support of the health services, educational activities, and outreach programs of the WMRC.
7. To promote and enhance the effective management and operation of the WMRC activities.

 Section 2. Goals

1. To assist healthcare providers, government, businesses, industries and private citizens in the establishment and support of the WMRC.
2. To promote a strong organizational structure with effective fiscal management through which the WMRC can best be prepared for a public health and/or disaster response.
3. To support community educational training and procedural activities critical to the health of the community.
4. To assist when requested with federal and state organizations charged with developing and implementing medical and disaster relief programs.
5. To provide forums for sharing best practices learned from natural and man-made disaster responses.
6. To establish fund-raising goals and to conduct various fund raising drives to support the mission and goals of the WMRC.

 Article 3. Membership

Section 1  General

1. Volunteer healthcare professionals including but not limited to physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, dentists, pharmacists, mental health counselors, and epidemiologists.
2. Other community members including but not limited to interpreters, office workers, legal advisors, clergy and educators.
3. Government and community entities including but not limited to local government, local fire and police departments, local Boards of Health, Emergency Planning Committees, and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). Government and community entities members may not hold office in the WMRC and are entitled to one vote per government and community entities.

 Section 2 Institutional

1. Institutional membership may be extended to any local or state agency that has responsibility or duties relating to developing and implementing medical emergency and disaster relief programs. Institutional members may not hold office in the WMRC and are entitled to one vote per institution.

 Section 3 Corporate

1. Corporate membership may be extended to any corporation, business or member of the private sector that provides a service or product relating to developing and implementing medical emergency and disaster relief programs. Corporate members may not hold office in the WMRC and are entitled to one vote per corporation.

 Article 4

The Officers of the WMRC shall be the:

 President/  Vice President/  Secretary/  Treasurer

 Section 1 Duties

1. The President shall appoint all members and shall discharge duties as required by the bylaws and in accordance with the purposes of the WMRC. The President shall chair meetings of the membership and the Officers.
2. The Vice President shall assume and perform all of the powers and duties of the President in the President’s absence.
3. The Secretary/Treasurer shall keep an accurate record of all meetings of the general membership and the Officers.
4. The Secretary/Treasurer shall oversee the financial affairs of the WMRC.

 Section 2 Election of Officers

1. At the annual meeting, Officers will be elected and assume their respective offices immediately. Officers will be elected by ballot in accordance with the procedures listed in these bylaws.
2. The terms of office for the Officers of the WMRC shall commence upon election conducted at the annual meeting and shall be for a period of two (2) years or until successors shall be elected. Offices may be elected for multiple terms of office. No member shall hold more than one office at a time.
3. Should a vacancy occur in the office of President, the Vice President will become President for the unexpired term.
4. Should a vacancy occur in any office other than the President, a successor may be nominated and elected by a vote of the general membership to fulfill the vacancy for the unexpired term of office.
5. Nominees for elected positions shall be elected by majority vote of WMRC members qualified to vote at the annual meeting. Nominations for offices will be take from the general membership.
6. When a nominee for a specific office does not receive a majority of the votes cast for that office, a run-off election shall be immediately conducted between the two nominees receiving the greatest number of votes.
7. Absentee ballots may be cast for an elective office, provided that the clerk prior to the election for that office receives all such absentee ballots.

 Article 5  Meetings

 Section 1 Notification

1. All meetings shall require at least a ten (10) days notice, however the Officers may waive this requirement due to extenuating circumstances.

    Section 2 Annual Meeting

1. The Annual Meeting of the WMRC membership will take place during the month of June.

 Section 3 Regular Meeting

1. The regular meeting of the WMRC membership shall meet a minimum of six (6) times per calendar year.

 Section 4 Quorum

1. A quorum during any meeting identified in Article 5 of these bylaws shall be a majority of the members present and must be equal to at least three (3) members of the WMRC.
2.  No WMRC member may vote upon a matter coming before that body in which he or she has a direct financial interest. Immediately upon becoming aware that such a conflict may exist, a WMRC member must disclose the existence of the potential conflict to the remaining members, withdraw from further deliberation on the issue, and refrain from voting on the matter. Any such disclosure and withdrawal shall be fully documented in the organization minutes.

 Article 6 Grounds for Dissolution

 The Officers of the WMRC are empowered to formally dissolve the organization known as the Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps as a legal entity under the laws of the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts.

 Upon the dissolution of this organization, assets shall be distributed for one or more exempt purposes within the meaning of the section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code, or shall be distributed to the federal government, or to a state or local government, for a public purpose.

Article 7  Non-profit Status

 Said organization is organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, including, for such purposes, the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or corresponding section of any future federal tax code.

 Reviewed, updated, and accepted by the Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps Officers and membership this 24^th day of June 2017 at the Annual Meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Standard Operating Procedures

 The Volunteer Program

1.1 Purpose of Volunteer Policies

The purpose of these policies is to provide overall guidance and direction to Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps (WMRC) volunteers and to staff involved in volunteer management. These policies are intended for internal management guidance only and do not constitute, either implicitly or explicitly, a binding contractual or personnel agreement. The Wachusett MRC reserves the exclusive right to change any of these policies at any time and to expect adherence to the changed policy. Changes to or exceptions from these policies may only be granted by the Executive Board and must be obtained in advance and in writing. Areas not specifically covered by these policies shall be determined by the Volunteer Coordinator.

1.2 Scope of Volunteer Policies

Unless specifically stated, these policies apply to all Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps, volunteers in all programs and projects undertaken by or on behalf of the Wachusett MRC, and to all sites of operation of the Wachusett MRC.

1.3 Role of the Volunteer Coordinator

The productive utilization of volunteers requires a planned and organized effort. The function of the Volunteer Coordinator is to provide a central coordinating point for effective volunteer management within the Wachusett MRC and to direct and assist staff and volunteers in the provision of services. The Volunteer Coordinator shall also bear responsibility for maintaining a liaison with other volunteer-utilizing programs in the community and assisting in community-wide efforts to recognize and promote volunteering. The Volunteer Coordinator shall bear primary responsibility for planning for effective volunteer utilization, for recruiting suitable volunteers, and for tracking and evaluating the contribution of volunteers to the Wachusett MRC.

1.4 Definition of ‘Volunteer’

A ‘volunteer’ is anyone who is a member of the Wachusett MRC and without compensation or expectation of compensation performs a task at the direction of and on behalf of the Wachusett MRC. A ‘volunteer’ must be officially accepted and enrolled by the Wachusett MRC prior to the performance of any task.

1.5 Spontaneous Volunteers

The Wachusett MRC also accepts as volunteers those who spontaneously respond to a public

health emergency. In each of these cases, however, the volunteer will be asked to complete any necessary tracking and screening paperwork prior to assignment and to participate in any training specific to assigned duties. Individuals who fail to follow these guidelines are not considered a Wachusett MRC volunteer, nor will they be allowed to function as a Wachusett MRC volunteer.

1.6 General and Position-Specific Training

Volunteers are required to complete general and position-specific training to provide them with the information and skills necessary to perform their volunteer assignment. All required general training should be completed within a reasonable amount of time after being accepted as a Wachusett MRC volunteer.  All volunteers are required to complete ICS 100 and NIMS 700 training  (on the FEMA website).

Volunteers with experience in an area of expertise are welcome and encouraged to share in the design and delivery of volunteer orientation and additional training for the unit.

1.7 Continuing Education

Ongoing training and educational opportunities will be available to volunteers during their service to the Wachusett MRC through local programs, online opportunities  and through other MRCs or emergency response organizations. Participation in continuing education is encouraged for all volunteers. This continuing education may include additional information pertinent to the performance of their current volunteer assignment, as well as general information, and may be provided by the Wachusett MRC or by other relevant organizations.

1.8 Conference Attendance

Volunteers are encouraged to attend conferences and meetings that are relevant to their volunteer assignments. Volunteers are requested to submit proof of training or certification to the Volunteer Coordinator.

1.9 On-Site Training

In the event of a public health emergency requiring volunteer involvement, it may be impossible to provide training to volunteers in the usual means and manner. In this situation, volunteers will receive general orientation and position-specific training on-site in the most efficient, yet effective, manner possible.

1.10 Service at the Discretion of the Wachusett MRC

The Wachusett MRC accepts the service of all volunteers with the understanding that such service is at the sole discretion of the Wachusett MRC. Volunteers agree that the Wachusett MRC may decide to terminate the volunteer’s relationship with the Wachusett MRC if deemed to be necessary. The volunteer may at any time for whatever reason, decide to sever the volunteer’s relationship with the Wachusett MRC. Notice of such a decision should be communicated as soon as possible and presented in writing to the Volunteer Coordinator.

1.11 Volunteer Rights and Responsibilities

Volunteers are a valuable resource to this Wachusett MRC, its staff, and the communities it serves.  Volunteers shall be extended the right to be given meaningful assignments, the right to be treated as equal co-workers, the right to effective supervision, the right to full involvement and participation, and the right to recognition for work done. In return, volunteers shall agree to actively perform their duties to the best of their abilities and to remain loyal to the goals and procedures of the Wachusett MRC.

1.12 Scope of Volunteer Involvement

Volunteers may be utilized in programs and activities in the areas of public health and emergency preparedness specified by the Wachusett MRC.  Volunteers should not, however, be utilized to displace any paid employees from their positions.

1.13 Professional Services

In assigning a volunteer to a position, attention is given to the interests and capabilities of the volunteer, as well as to the requirements of the volunteer position. Volunteers shall not perform professional services for which certification or licensing is required unless currently certified or licensed to do so, and they may do so only if their volunteer assignment calls for those services. A copy of the professional certificate or license will be maintained in the volunteer’s file.

1.14 Health Requirement

Volunteers will be asked to affirm that they are free of health or physical limitations which would hinder their ability to perform assigned tasks effectively.  Every effort will be made to assign volunteers to activities in accordance with their skills and abilities.

1.15 Background Checks

All adult volunteers will be subject to a background check known as a CORI which may contain information about an individual’s criminal history, driving record, education, professional credentials, and work history. Applicants who have been convicted of a felony or who have a serious misdemeanor conviction in an area which causes concern for the safety and wellbeing of the public, or concern for the protection of Wachusett MRC property will not be accepted as part of the Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps.

1.16 Maintenance of Records

A system of records is maintained on each volunteer with the Wachusett MRC, including

volunteer application, dates of service, training completed, duties performed, and

evaluation of work. Volunteers and appropriate staff shall be responsible for submitting

all appropriate records and information to the Volunteer Coordinator in a timely and

accurate fashion. Volunteer personnel records shall be accorded the same confidentiality as staff personnel records. Requests for release of information beyond dates of service and duties performed (i.e. letters of recommendation) should be made directly to the Volunteer Coordinator, either verbally or in writing.

1.17 Conflicts of Interest

No person who has a conflict of interest with any activity or program of the Wachusett MRC, whether personal, philosophical, or financial shall be accepted to serve as a volunteer with the Wachusett MRC. Furthermore, all volunteers shall make every effort to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest. An appearance of conflict exists when a reasonable person would conclude from the circumstances that the volunteer’s ability to protect the public interest, or perform public duties, is compromised by personal interests. An appearance of conflict could exist even in the absence of a true conflict of interest.

1.18 Representation of the Wachusett MRC

Volunteers are not authorized to make public statements on behalf of the Wachusett MRC, its partner agencies, or any employee or volunteer of those organizations. All media requests must be directed to the Volunteer Coordinator and/or the Public Information Officer.

1.19 Confidentiality

Volunteers are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of all proprietary or privileged information to which they are exposed while serving as a volunteer, whether this information involves a single staff, volunteer, client, or other person or involves overall Wachusett MRC business. Failure to maintain confidentiality may result in termination ofthe volunteer’s relationship with the Wachusett MRC.

1.20 Worksite

An appropriate worksite shall be established prior to the activation of any volunteer. This worksite shall contain the necessary facilities, equipment, and space to enable the volunteer to effectively and comfortably perform their duties.

1.21 Dress Code

As representatives of the Wachusett MRC, volunteers, like staff, are responsible for presenting a good image to clients and to the community. Volunteers shall dress appropriately for the conditions and performance of their duties.

1.22 Sign-In/Sign-Out Sheets

Individual volunteers are responsible for signing in and out during training sessions, exercises, drills, and actual events. These sign-in/sign-out sheets will serve as proof of hours served, as well as a safety measure to ensure proper accounting of individuals during events.

 Purpose

1. The purposes of the WMRC shall include but are not limited to protecting health, safety and overall well-being of the community during a public health and/or community disaster response through direct or indirect care and through educational activities.
2. To study, research, collect, compile and disseminate information about WMRC experience to federal, state and local government.
3. To monitor decision making and legislative processes of local, state and federal government or agencies as these activities relate to the WMRC and to keep the membership of the WMRC informed of these activities.
4. To coordinate the efforts and plans of the WMRC with other organizations having common goals and objectives.
5. To conduct promotional and educational activities in support of the WMRC program.
6. To solicit contributions and grants for support of the health services, educational activities, and outreach programs of the WMRC.
7. To promote and enhance the effective management and operation of the
8. WMRC activities.

 The purpose of the MRC is not limited to medical emergencies. This valuable resource can also be mobilized to support a range of public health initiatives and emergencies.

 Supplement existing medical services at emergencies such as fires, plane crashes, chemical spills, terrorist incidents, and explosions.

• Unusual disease outbreaks or suspected bioterrorism events, which may require massive immunization within a region or distribution of preventative medicine
• Health education, including nutrition and fitness classes, awareness programs for health and safety, programs offered to vulnerable populations.
• Support to existing community service organizations.

 These potential roles can be revisited through periodic needs assessments within the region, as well as by member surveys.

 Our focus has been as originally conceived, to have small groups of volunteers in each community to call on for local public health initiatives, preventive medicine initiatives and community emergency preparedness.

 Our services area covers 22 communities of north Worcester County: Ashburnham, Athol, Barre, Clinton, Fitchburg, Hardwick, Hubbardston, Gardner, Leominster,  New Braintree,  New Salem, Oakham, Orange,  Petersham, Philipston, Princeton, Royalston, Rutland, Sterling, Templeton, Westminster, and Winchendon.

 3. Principles of Operation

The Wachusett MRC will operate according to the following principles.

–           We treat all people, volunteers, clients, and co-workers with respect and dignity in all situations.

–           We honor the fact that volunteers are donating their time and expertise, for the overall health and   well being of their communities, as well as training to be of service in emergencies.

–           We will communicate clearly and consistently with MRC volunteers.

–           Input from members is encouraged and valued.

–           No member will be asked to perform beyond the scope of his or her licensure, credentials, training, or comfort level.

–           No member will knowingly be placed at risk, during training or deployment.

–           Members have the option to refuse assignments for any reason.

–           Response to disasters outside of their community and region are at the member’s discretion, whenever they are             invited to participate by the MRC staff.

–           No member will self-deploy. Rather, involvement in any event that represents the MRC is strictly upon agreement with an authorized staff member.

–           The MRC will consistently seek inclusion of UMV residents across all demographics, thereby truly representing all of the (adult) citizens in the region.

2.2 Integrity and Privacy of Member Data

 Policies are in place to ensure the integrity and privacy of member data.

 Storage: Member data will primarily be kept in an encrypted computer private database. Hard copy printouts are created only as needed, for easier record-keeping in discussions and invitations to public health or emergency activities. The coordinator will make copies of the master database, at regular intervals and when a significant number of changes have been made. These paper copies will be placed in a Master Binder and under lock and key until needed in response to an event.

Security: All member records will be treated as confidential, and protected from unauthorized use. They will be kept under lock and key and information such as name, and occupation shared with other emergency response organizations only with permission of the member.

2.3 Contact information  Officers 

Judith O’Donnell RN MPH

WMRC Coordinator/President

P.O. Box 555, Hubbardston, Ma 01452

Home  978-928-4086

Office  978-928-3834

Cell   978-270-9935

 PJ Taucer M.Ed

Vice President

Cell: 508-847-0093

Work: 508-616-2822

 Lorraine Mastropieri

Secretary

Home:  978-779-5473

Anne Marie Catalano

Treasurer

Cell: 978-204-7274

The Officers of the WMRC shall be the:

President                  Vice President

Secretary                  Treasurer

Section 1 Duties

1. The President shall chair meetings of the membership and the executive committee.
2. The Vice President shall assumed and perform all of the powers and duties of the President in the President’s absence.
3. The Secretary shall keep an accurate record of all meetings of the general membership and the executive committee.
4. The Treasurer shall oversee the financial affairs of the WMRC.

             Membership

1. Volunteer healthcare professionals including but not limited to physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, dentists, pharmacists, mental health counselors, and epidemiologists.
2. Other community members including but not limited to interpreters, office workers, legal advisors, clergy and educators.
3. Government and community entities including but not limited to local government, local fire and police departments, local Boards of Health, Emergency Planning Committees, and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT). Government and community entities members may not hold office in the WMRC and are entitled to one vote per government and community entities.

 2.3 Recruitment

 Recruitment will be ongoing. Methods will include:

 Word of mouth from current members

• Presentations to affiliates and potential response partners
• Information tables at health fairs and community events
• Meetings with municipal agencies and health care organizations
• Presentations at local colleges and universities
• Speaking engagements at conferences
• Focused membership drives within each community
• Mass mailings to health professionals
• Media campaigns (newspapers, cable TV, radio, Internet, posters)
• Links to related web sites
• Joint marketing with affiliated organizations

 The unit is open to creative ideas that would continue to draw new members.

 

 2.4 Membership

The range of membership roles is as diverse as the opportunities for community service.

 –           New member. These people are on the roster and planning to participate more fully as time goes on – undergoing background checks and attending training sessions and drills.

–           Full member. These volunteers have passed CORI and license checks, have completed basic training (at minimum having attended an introductory course to ICS 100 or completed FEMA online course  ICS 100/NIMS 700 , have been assigned badges and are ready to participate in drills and deployments.

–           Team leader. Members who have demonstrated leadership qualities and expressed interest in guiding others will be designated as team leaders. They may be asked to coach other members and guide teams during drills and deployments.

                                                                                                                          

Once an application has been reviewed and accepted –

 –         All members who meet certain basic criteria will be assigned badges, to enable rapid identification as trained members.

–           Event-specific preparations – equipment, instructions, and other prerequisites will be provided by the Wachusett MRC. Members may be asked for additional documents of verification and/or meet other requirements to meet the needs required by an anticipated/real time event. 

Per bylaws of the Wachusett MRC, members are required to participate in one training/activity each year through an online program or participation at an event, program or training.

Training – as appropriate for the event, the member’s skill level, and the service(s) they’ll provide. National core competencies and training standards are utilized, which would allow members to be assigned at their highest level of capability.

 –           Background checks – CORI screening will be conducted to ensure that the member has no criminal record, and that no sanctions exist to prohibit unsupervised patient care. Members whose backgrounds are determined to pose a security risk will be dismissed, to protect other care providers as well as patients. The Wachusett MRC considers the process a formality for legal protection.

 –           License and certificate verification – Medical licenses and certificates will be verified through the appropriate issuing agency, to ensure that their credentials are valid. Members will be asked to provide a photocopy of their license or certificate, to be maintained in the member binder. Copies of CPR cards and training certificates will be kept on file as appropriate. Retired and inactive professionals are welcome to join.

 Length of Service

There is no binding agreement regarding a volunteer’s length of service with the Wachusett MRC.  However, because of the investment of time, training and resources that the MRC will dedicate to each volunteer, it is hoped that potential volunteers would consider whether they will be able to fully participate in the MRC program and the training opportunities prior to joining the MRC.

 2.5 Training

 The main goals are to help each member develop skills in disaster response, and to practice this enhanced knowledge with team members. Trainings will be based on MRC competencies developed from the national MRC offices.

Volunteer trainings are recorded in the MRC database, and will assist in matching volunteers to their assignments/positions.  Copies of completion records, certificates, cards, etc. must be forwarded to the MRC Coordinator for proper record keeping.

The Wachusett MRC has pre-identified courses or trainings that, when completed, will fulfill basic requirements.  We encourage participation in other state or local programs through other MRC offerings or other emergency management offerings that meet the goals of the Core Competencies.  

 In order for the Wachusett MRC to remain in compliance with national requirements, we have established a goal of at least 80% of our volunteers and staff must have satisfactorily completed both ICS100 and NIMS700.  A link is available to these courses through the Wachusett MRC website www.wachusettmrc.org

 2.6 Online Training:

 Complete an on-line Personal Preparedness training.

1. The Center for Public Health Preparedness, School of Public Health, University North Caroline or University of Minnesota. Links are available on the website.  
2. From the FEMA online training site: Multiple courses are available some related to citizen response to professional response. All courses are free.

Meetings/Trainings:

The MRC will provide onsite trainings following the guidelines for MRC volunteer competencies.  The MRC will have at least 4 trainings per year and will endeavor to have 4 drill or table top exercises each year.  Volunteer per our bylaws are expected to participate in at least one of these activities per year.

2.7 Deployment

 Levels of Involvement

Local – The primary focus of the unit is on local response. Members are first invited to provide service in their own towns.

Regional – If the need arises, members may be asked to respond to other towns within the 22 towns under the Wachusett MRC coverage. Other MRC units within Worcester County may ask for additional assistance and volunteer may be asked to respond.

State and National – During a statewide or national disaster, MRC units across Massachusetts and also throughout the U.S. may be asked to respond.

 Position Descriptions

 Position descriptions will be provided before or during an activation outlining the general and specific duties that will be expected to perform. 

 Members can have varying levels of potential response capabilities, depending on their levels of commitment, training, and availability:

 Assignments will be based on need, interest, training and verification of credentials.

 The Medical Reserve Corps unit will work closely with the local Health Officers, Emergency Managers, and other emergency leaders because of their ongoing responsibilities and specific expertise.

Members may also be asked to complete a form to verify their conduct and respect for patient confidentiality. A benefit that other MRCs have experienced in doing so, is that the existence of these signed documents fosters greater trust and a sense of enhanced professionalism for members among response partners.

In the event of a large public health emergency, MRC members will be utilized commensurate with their training and skills. Though there are some tasks that members whose licenses have expired will be prohibited from performing, their expertise and training may be used in other areas.

If an emergency is of sufficient magnitude, the governor may waive licensure requirements and authorize retired and out-of-state medical professionals to perform various procedures. In this case, members whose licenses are inactive may be granted additional capabilities to meet the urgent needs and address the unusual life threats that may be posed by a disaster.

2.9 Guidance when calling for volunteers:

• Avoid siphoning members to a degree that would leave the covered geographical area more vulnerable in case of disaster.
• Determine whether the call is appropriate in terms of the unit’s capabilities
• Minimize unnecessary risks to members: legally, physically, other
• Ensure that the appropriate channels are respected (other emergency response agencies, authorities per proclamation of State of Emergency, municipal agencies)

3. Types of Service

Roles and responsibilities depend on the member’s physical ability, interest, training, and expertise. All service is voluntary. Responsibilities can include the following.

1. Medical

• Inoculation (immunization and prophylaxis)
• Clinic prep (fill syringes, measure meds, other)
• Interviews for patient history
• First responder (initial assessment and vital signs)
• Triage (START or otherwise)
• Treatment (basic first aid)
• Phone screening and consulting
• Local distribution of medications from SNS (Strategic National Stockpile)
• Communicable disease control measures
• Supporting health needs of vulnerable populations
  • Integration with local, regional, and statewide initiatives

      –     Shelter care

 

1. Non-medical

• Patient intake (basic data forms)
• People movers
• Translators
• Ham radio operators
• Administrative tasks
• Record keeping
• Comforting and consoling

 

1. Non-emergency

• Coordinate and evaluate training programs
• Assist in community health programs
• Support public awareness campaigns
• Advocate for liability protections
• Promotion and public relations
• Organize drills and exercises
• Focus group involvement (for issues of special interest)

3.1. Service Environments

Members could find themselves serving the MRC in the following kinds of environments.

 Mass Dispensing Clinics (public health outbreaks, counteract toxic agents)

• Mass Casualty Sites (often austere environments)
  • Staging areas
  • Triage and treatment
  • Alternate care locations (school auditoriums, other)
  • Field hospitals
• Emergency Shelters (residents displaced due to fires, floods, storms)
• Shift Relief and Backfill at Hospitals

 4.0 Communications with Members

 This issue has become increasingly complex with the expanding number of members and their range of capabilities. Additionally technology is continually changing with upgrades to existing technologies and emerging new technologies.  Current and planned methods of communication are as follows. These methods will vary depending on the situation (ongoing interactions versus a call-out).

 Direct phone calls.  Phone trees. Trusted entities such as Officers/Community Liasons for WMRC may be asked to make calls on behalf of the MRC, purely to streamline member contacts – such as applying an emergency call-down list. Phone numbers would never be shared for non-MRC purposes.

 E-mail or texting  The use of individual messages or as an all unit messaging.  HHAN,  MAResponds, the state database,  has blast capability, one message to all.

Members are strongly encouraged to check the website, Wachusett Medical Reserve Corps, on a regular basis for announcements of upcoming events.

1. Meetings and Training Sessions. Every time members congregate, there is an opportunity to strengthen communications. Any scheduled session can include kickoff announcements, follow-up socializing, and informal sharing of ideas.
2. The unit will continue to examine its methods of contacting its volunteers, and is open to creative ideas  – especially as our numbers continue to grow.

 During a disaster, only the Public Information Officer – as specified through Incident Command – is authorized to speak with the media. Members of the MRC are instructed to refer the press to their supervisor (who would reference the PIO), rather than providing any opinions or information for the public.

 5.0 Equipment

 Uniforms

The uniform to be worn for deployments, community service events, training exercises, and any other opportunities where members are identified as part of the Wachusett MRC, includes a dark blue polo shirt with the MRC logo or T shirt with Wachusett MRC logo. A vest with reflective striping is issued with MRC backpack.  Whenever members are in uniform, they must always be mindful that they are representing the national MRC system, as well as their unit and their own capabilities.

 Badges

All members who successfully pass CORI and license checks, and complete some basic training, will be provided with a photo ID badge. These items have a vertical (“portrait”) orientation, with specific layout for the photo, logo and text. Badges are to be worn on a lanyard, in a clear plastic pouch, as provided by the Wachusett MRC.

 On-site deployments – Members should have the following items ready for rapid response, especially at mass casualty scenes, depending on the situation:

 Go-kits (A start up kit to be provided):

• Back-pack
• Safety scissors
• Nitrile gloves
• Face masks for PPE (including N95, if possible)
• Pocket mask or face shield for resuscitation
• Eye protection, Gown
• First Aid supplies (bandages, sterile wipes, other)
• Bottled water
• Pen lights
• Notebook and pen

Providing a solid training foundation is essential in building volunteer capabilities and ensuring they are ready for potential deployments. The MRC Core Competencies serve as the national training standard for MRC volunteers and provide a “common language” to communicate volunteer capabilities with other MRC units and partner organizations.

The MRC Core Competencies Training Plan is organized using the following categories:

Learning paths are groups of competencies related to certain topics that align with volunteer motivations. The four learning paths are Volunteer Response, Volunteer Preparedness, Volunteer Leadership, and Volunteer Support for Community Resiliency.  The training program offers the opportunity for volunteers to grow and contribute within the MRC on many different levels of knowledge and skills.

• Volunteer tier level applies to the level of training (introductory, intermediate, or advanced) and the appropriate volunteer tier level.

• Tier Level 1: Advanced level of knowledge for volunteers serving in a specialized or supervisory response role
• Tier Level 2: Intermediate level of knowledge for volunteers wishing to expand their skills and abilities
• Tier Level 3: Introductory level of knowledge that all volunteers should have
• Tier Level 4: Volunteers who have registered but have not completed MRC orientation  Unassigned: New volunteers who have not completed registration or orientation

 

Link:  https://www.naccho.org/uploads/downloadable-resources/2019-MRC-Core-Competencies-and-Training-Plan.pdf

 

**Wachusett MRC carries Liability and Accidental Insurance for volunteers that are documented as participating in a response or  training.

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Summary of Liability and Workers’ Compensation Protections  for Massachusetts HealthCare Volunteers in Disaster Response

Disclaimer:  This information is only a brief outline of liability and Workers’ Compensation protections in Massachusetts.  It is provided for educational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. Consult your own attorney for legal advice.

Definitions

Liability –   legal responsibility for damages that result from someone’s acts or omissions

Immunity – an exemption from liability- Someone who is immune from liability will not have to pay any damages

Indemnify – hold harmless; promise to pay any costs or claims which may arise from another’s act or failure to act- Example: employer promises employee to pay third parties for injuries suffered because of the employee’s conduct

Workers’ Compensation – a system of providing benefits to an employee for injuries occurring in the scope of employment -Trade-offs:  makes it easy for employee to recover (no-fault standard) but limits recovery and employee loses right to sue employer

 Protections Available to BOTH State Employees and Others

 “Federalization”

There are several ways in which people can be “federalized.”  None require a federal declaration of disaster or emergency.  The first three options may be used to hire paid employees as well as unpaid volunteers.

 Temporary federal employee under Schedule A of the Excepted Service (used during Hurricane Katrina relief)

• Authority: 5 CFR § 213.3102(i)(2).  Federal agencies may hire temporary personnel when a critical hiring need exists and normal hiring procedures are impracticable.
• Appointment lasts for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days when essential to the federal agency’s operations.
• This appointment provides:
  • Liability protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act
  • Coverage under the federal Workers’ Compensation program

 Intermittent disaster-response personnel of the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS)  

• Authority: 42 U.S.C. § 300hh-11(d)(1).  The Secretary of Health and Human Services may appoint these personnel for the purpose of assisting NDMS in carrying out its duties.
• This appointment provides:
  • Liability protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act
  • Coverage under the federal Workers’ Compensation program
  • Benefits will be determined based on a formula that considers existing income and other factors.

 Temporary personnel under the Stafford Act

• Authority: 42 U.S.C. § 5149(b)
• Appointment is for performing any service under the Stafford Act, which includes activities conducted before, during, or after a disaster.
• This appointment provides:
  • Liability protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act
  • Coverage under the federal Workers’ Compensation program

 Public Health Service volunteer (no pay available)

• Authority: 42 U.S.C. § 217b
• This appointment requires a formal agreement, and the volunteer can only provide services to patients in specific settings or meeting specific criteria outlined by Secretary of HHS.
• There is no guarantee of legal protections; Secretary of HHS must decide whether they apply, presumably through administrative action.

2. Federal Volunteer Protection Act, 42 U.S.C. § 14501 et seq.

Provides immunity from liability for negligence for people who volunteer for a government entity or a non-profit organization.  The volunteer is not liable to a person they harm, BUT the organization that the volunteer is working under may still sue the volunteer personally for negligence

• Volunteer must be properly licensed, certified, or authorized, and must act within the scope of his/her authority in the organization.
• Negligence arising from operation of a motorized vehicle is NOT covered
• Protection only extends to UNPAID volunteers

The FVPA protects state employees who volunteer for a non-profit organization or for another government entity.

There is NO Workers’ Compensation protection

3. Good Samaritan Laws

General

• These state laws protect health care workers from liability when they render emergency care or treatment. Coverage depends on there being an emergency.  The emergency need not be declared, but it is not clear whether the concept of “emergency” extends beyond an immediate, urgent need. 
• Care must be provided in good faith
• There is NO Workers’ Compensation protection in most situations

Physicians, nurses, physician assistants:  M.G.L. c. 112, § 12B

• Provides immunity from liability for damages resulting from the person’s acts or omissions.
• Care must be given other than in the ordinary course of practice
• Protection only extends to UNPAID volunteers (therefore applies only to off-duty state employees)
• Protection extends to doctors, nurses, and PAs from another state or Canada

 Respiratory therapists:  M.G.L. c. 112, § 23B

• Provides immunity from liability for damages resulting from the person’s acts or omissions.
• Care must be given other than in the ordinary course of practice
• Protection only extends to UNPAID volunteers (therefore applies only to off-duty state employees)
• Protection does NOT extend to respiratory therapists from another state or Canada

 Physicians, dentists and hospitals:  M.G.L. c. 112, § 12F

• Protects doctors, dentists, and hospitals from liability for failure to obtain consent from a parent of a child, or spouse of a patient when delay will endanger the life, limb, or mental well-being of the patient
• Protection does NOT extend to people from another state or Canada

 EMS Personnel:  M.G.L. c. 111C, § 21

• Protects certified, accredited or approved EMS personnel from personal liability when they “in the performance of their duties” render first aid, CPR, transportation or other emergency medical services.
• Protection does NOT extend to people from another state or Canada

 People trained in CPR, AEDs, basic cardiac life support:   M.G.L. c. 112, § 12V

• Protects people trained according to specified standards from liability for acts or omissions, other than gross negligence or willful or wanton misconduct
• Care must be given other than in the ordinary course of professional or business activity
• Protection only extends to UNPAID volunteers (therefore applies only to off-duty state employees). Protection does NOT extend to people from another state or Canada.

 Liability Protection for Doctors and Nurses in Public Health Programs

M.G.L. c. 112, § 12C provides immunity from liability for physicians and nurses “administering immunization or other protective programs under public health programs” (i.e. government-sponsored programs

• Covers BOTH PAID AND UNPAID doctors and nurses
• NOT limited to emergency situations
• There is NO Workers’ Compensation protection

 Volunteering with Private Organizations (American Red Cross, Salvation Army, etc.)

Check with the organization about whether it offers liability or Workers’ Compensation protection.

 Hurricane Katrina Response Only

• Chapter 81 of the Massachusetts Acts of 2005 allows the Secretary of Administration and Finance to indemnify (and defend) state employees and other persons from personal financial loss and expense, including legal fees, arising out of actions they take in assisting victims of Hurricane Katrina.
• There is NO Workers’ Compensation protection

 Protections Available ONLY to State Employees

 Massachusetts Tort Claims Act

 M.G.L. c. 258:  Public employees are protected from liability for negligent acts or omissions if they acted within the scope of their employment.

 Workers’ Compensation

M.G.L. c. 152, §§ 69-75 provide Workers’ Compensation benefits to state employees when they are injured at work.

 Assistance in Another State under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC)

Mass. joined EMAC through Chapter 339 of the Acts of 2000. MEMA is responsible for deploying people under EMAC.

When a person is deployed:

• S/he is on official assignment for the Commonwealth, and is entitled to regular compensation and overtime/comp time for hours worked.
• His or her Massachusetts-issued license, certificate, or permit is valid in the requesting state, subject to any limitations prescribed by the Governor of that state.
• S/he has immunity from liability for any acts or omissions done in good faith, and is considered an agent of the requesting state for tort liability and immunity purposes.
• Massachusetts Workers’ Compensation benefits apply.

 Who is a state employee for EMAC purposes?

• Regular employees
• Seasonal, intermittent, 120 day and contract employees may be deployed under EMAC and would be covered by its provisions

 NO State Law Protections: Paid Leave to Volunteer with the American Red Cross (ARC)

M.G.L. c. 30, § 9I allows state employees up to 15 calendar days per year of paid leave to serve as an ARC volunteer in specialized disaster relief services.

• The leave is at the sole discretion of the employee’s supervisor
• Leave is only available to Commonwealth employees registered as certified disaster service volunteers of the ARC
• The employee is entitled to regular pay, but NOT overtime, shift differential pay, hazardous duty pay or any other form of compensation
• The employee is NOT covered by the Mass. Tort Claims Act
• Massachusetts Workers Compensation benefits do NOT apply
• Federal Volunteer Protection Act does NOT apply because person is paid
• Check with the Red Cross to see if it offers liability or Workers’ Compensation protection.

 Protections Available ONLY to People Employed in the Private Sector

 Coverage under current employer (hospital, health clinic, etc.)

• Employer must agree to keep the volunteer on payroll.  Coverage is less likely to exist if the person is not paid.  (The employer cannot guarantee how the insurance company will interpret the policy, so it’s best if person looks as much like an employee as possible.)
• If the person is considered an employee, liability protection and Workers’ Compensation benefits would be available as they normally are in the person’s job.