The Rx Response partnership participated in a emergency preparedness training exercise in New York earlier this month. Participating HDMA members interacted in a large-scale, "scenario-planning" event that tested preparedness and response capabilities for a major hurricane, striking the coastal region of New York. As part of the exercise, HDMA collected information on alternate distribution and delivery plans, and shared the latest situation reports on anticipated planning scenarios for the onset and after the hurricane.

The exercise was conducted by the New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) and the New York State Office of Homeland Security (OHS) along with the Rx Response Coordinating Body. The event was developed and facilitated by the NYS Exercise Committee, which serves to assist state and local agencies with exercise training, development and coordination and funding identification.

Rx Response is an industry initiative designed to support and help coordinate the continued delivery of medicines during a severe public health emergency. The partnership includes HDMA, Pharmaceutical Research & Manufacturers Association (PhRMA), American Hospital Association, American Red Cross, Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS), National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) and other healthcare organizations. The partnership also works with state emergency agencies to further develop the programs. Please click here to learn more about the Rx Response initiative.

Interested in learning more about pandemic preparedness? Please click here.

For more information on the Rx Response initiative, please contact Marjorie DePuy, Assistant Director, Industry Relations, at 703-885-0283.