Southeast IdahoDownload the Southeast Idaho Medical Reserve Corps brochure
In an emergency, natural disaster, or public health incident, volunteers with the right training are invaluable. Volunteers are needed all across Idaho. Whether or not you have medical training, you can become an everyday hero by registering with the Medical Reserve Corps in your area. Volunteer training is free.
Formed in 2002, the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)is a nationwide program comprised of private citizens, medical and public health professionals who sign up to serve as community health volunteers during natural disasters, emergencies, and public health incidents.
In an emergency, the immediate deployment of emergency medical personnel is critical. However, such events can quickly overwhelm hospitals and healthcare systems with individuals urgently in need of care. In addition, it is often difficult in the midst of a disaster to locate qualified volunteers and coordinate large volunteer efforts. The MRC was created to engage volunteers to strengthen public health preparedness, emergency response, and community resilience.
Local MRC volunteers provide a variety of services to their communities during an emergency situation including handing out supplies, signing people into shelters, or giving needed information. Medically trained MRC volunteers can also administer immunizations, provide health education, and offer medical support. All MRC volunteers may also assist in ongoing public health efforts, such as helping out at health fairs, during non-emergencies.
While doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals are a core part of the MRC, the MRC does not limit membership to those in the medical community. Individuals without medical training can fill essential supporting roles. Simply put, any citizen with an interest in helping keep their community prepared for an emergency is qualified to be in the MRC.
In the event of a disaster, you will receive an alert requesting volunteers. You will then have the chance to accept or decline the volunteer request. There is no obligation to participate in an activation.
Idaho citizens interested in joining the MRC can register at www.volunteeridaho.org. Training is free, no medical background is necessary, and it’s a great way to help keep your community prepared.
