March 13, 2026 – Healthcare Network will conduct a full-scale emergency preparedness exercise on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the Nichols Community Health Center in Golden Gate. The exercise will begin at 10:00 a.m. and is designed to evaluate the organization’s readiness to respond to a post hurricane medical surge by activating and operating an Alternate Care Site (ACS).
Agencies participation includes Florida Association of Community Health Centers (FACHC), Southwest Florida Healthcare Coalition, Direct Relief, iTECH nursing program, Florida State University, Collier County Department of Health, David Lawrence Centers and Tampa Bay Health & Medical Preparedness Coalition.
Activities will simulate realistic response scenarios in a controlled environment to assess Healthcare Network’s capability to respond to an influx of patients following a major hurricane impacting the region. This exercise is critical to strengthen interagency communication, test emergency response protocols and enhance overall readiness to serve patients and the community during real life emergencies.
The exercise will not impact Healthcare Network’s ability to provide routine care, and no real patients will be involved. Patients and community members may notice increased activity at the Nichols Community Health Center during the exercise. This is a planned drill, and there is no real emergency.
“Preparedness is essential to ensuring the safety of our patients, staff and community,” said Jamie Ulmer, CEO of Healthcare Network. “This exercise allows us to practice coordination and response efforts so we can continue providing care when it matters most.”
About Healthcare Network
Since 1977, Healthcare Network has distinguished itself by providing primary healthcare to men, women, and children of all ages — serving the disenfranchised, underinsured, and uninsured in our communities, as well as those with insurance and resources who recognize the quality and comprehensiveness of care available.
The organization has grown from two small trailers in Immokalee to a network of providers located throughout Collier County. Primary health care services include family care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, senior care, dental care and pharmacy, and integrated and traditional behavioral health for adults and children. Additionally, the organization’s community health workers bring health and social services directly to underserved families. For more information, visit HealthcareSWFL.org, or to schedule an appointment, please call 239-658-3000.
