Ulster County is setting up the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), an all-volunteer network designed to protect public health and aid in preparedness and response to public health emergencies and disasters. The MRC will have both non-medical and medically licensed or certified volunteers.
“A well-organized Medical Reserve Corps stands as a pillar of readiness, ensuring a rapid, coordinated response when crisis strikes,” said Everett Erichsen, director of the county’s Department of Emergency Services. “Investing in preparedness not only shields against the unexpected but also fosters a sense of security and resilience, strengthening the very fabric of society.”
The MRC was certified as a registered unit in the Federal MRC program under the Office of the United States Surgeon General. Examples of activities that MRC volunteers participate in and support include: emergency shelter operations and medical care; community vaccination clinics; disaster cleanup and recovery support; and first aid and medical support during large public gatherings.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or a non-driver ID to apply for membership. Members must register with New York state and complete online courses. To retain membership in the unit, members must attend a minimum of four activities annually, either training or deployments. Ulster’s MRC unit plans to conduct scheduled training exercises, typically monthly.
Nationwide the program involves more than 200,000 volunteers from approximately 800 community-based units throughout the U. S. and its territories.
