Vermont rates highest among all states in public health emergency preparation

This year the US earned 6.8 points out of 10 possible in the latest assessment of preparedness for community health emergencies, an increase of 1.5% over last year. The National Health Security Preparedness Index has measured states’ ability to respond to health security threats such as a Zika outbreak or a natural disaster for the last four years. The Index includes metrics such as vaccination rates, hazard plans for public schools, the number of paramedics and hospitals. The US overall performed best (8.2 points) for Incident and Information Management, and worst (5.3 points) for Healthcare Delivery. Vermont scored best among all states with 7.8 points. All ERC states equaled or exceeded the US average. The report includes detailed information on each state’s performance and challenges. The report concludes with areas that need work to ensure public safety in public health emergencies.