Bio-Pack Prepositioning Medication for First Responders

First responders are our first line of defense in a public health emergency and are out in the community 24/7.  Their health and safety are critical in order to respond effectively.  One strategy local health departments are considering is prepositioning medications with first responders.  This type of approach provides first responders the protection they need to safely respond to a public health emergency in a timely manner. 

Montgomery County, Maryland's Bio-Pack program prepositions medications (anti-biotics) with first responders prior to a public health emergency.  Included in this toolkit is a video DVD, Part I educates first responders as well as public health staff on the Bio-Pack program.  Part II of the video is for public health staff considering the option of prepositioning mdeciations for traditional first responders.  A brochure or guide for local public health agencies is also included in the toolkit.

As a result of using this toolkit, public health emergency planners will be able to describe the Montgomery County, Maryland Bio-Pack program and how it will benefit first responders and potentially improve their response to a biological event requiring antibiotic medications.

Bio-Pack Prepositioning Medication for First Responders:

• Video Part I
• Video Part II

Bio-Pack Prepositioning Medication for First Responders:  A Guide for Local Public Health Agencies (PDF)