The Miami VA Healthcare System has taken a number of steps to plan for the upcoming hurricane season. These steps include implementing a new automated communication system, restructuring our evacuation procedures, testing our current emergency response procedures, and training new employees on how to prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. From past experiences, we have noticed that communication is a challenge and we plan to use “Send Word Now” as part of our communication strategy. “Send Word Now” will help us to disseminate information to all employees simultaneously during emergency situations, such as a hurricane. The system also serves as a conduit of information from our employees to our Emergency Command Post.
