In response to the attack upon the World Trade Center, the Federal Government established the Medical Reserve Corp (MRC), a national network of local units to provide surge capacity in the event of public health emergencies and to improve the health and safety of our communities. Our local unit is the Thurston County Medical Reserve Corp (TCMRC). MRC units provide structure to pre-identify, credential, train, and rapidly activate medical and public health volunteers when necessary. The most recent activation was for the Covid-19 pandemic during which TCMRC volunteers were very busy in multiple roles.
TCMRC supports several annual scheduled events, including the operation of first aid stations at the Seattle to Portland bicycle race and the Senior Games, and back-to-school vaccination clinics at local schools and tribal centers. These events serve as an opportunity to meet other members, and to understand the teamwork structure which is employed in the event of natural disaster. (We do, after all, live on the Ring of Fire.)
Membership is open to all over 18 years of age, with medical, nursing, and many other allied health capabilities, as well as non-medical personnel who are essential in the operation of MRC activities. Membership is free, comes with no obligation to participate in any activation, and offers valuable educational opportunities including the excellent and comprehensive American Heart Association HeartSaver course. More information is available at: https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/departments/public-health-and-social-services/vital-services/medical-reserve-corps. If you are interested in joining TCMRC please feel free to contact me directly.
Daniel Paull, MD
Chair, Leadership Team TCMRC
