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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Vicki L. Cleaver, EdD, College of Public Health, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Southwest Center for Public Health Preparedness, P.O. Box 26901, Room 369, Oklahoma City, OK 73190, 405-271-2017 x46744, vicki-cleaver@ouhsc.edu and Brenda Elledge, DrPH, Southwest Center for Public Health Preparedness, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 801 NE 13th ST, Room 159, PO Box 26901, Oklahoma City, OK 73190.

American Indians/Alaska Natives are distinct from other traditionally defined minority groups because of the unique legal status they have with the federal government. The 560+ federally recognized tribes have an inherent right to self govern creating issues related to local, state and national all-hazards preparedness planning. The CDC initiated a system of Centers for Public Health Preparedness which funded the Southwest Center for Public Health Preparedness (SWCPHP) to ensure that frontline public health workers have the skills and competencies required to respond to current and emerging health threats. To address tribal preparedness issues for the 39 tribes in Oklahoma an Inter-Tribal Emergency Management Coalition was developed and partners with the SWCPHP. The coalition is comprised of Tribal Emergency Management agencies and others who meet monthly to share information about how to improve emergency response for member tribes. The coalition has as its mission, “to minimize the effects of disasters upon the Indian Tribes of Oklahoma by preparing for, responding to, recovering from, and mitigation against all natural and man made disasters.” The purpose of this session is to provide information about the relationship of the SWCPHP with the Coalition. Oklahoma is one of six Preparedness Centers working specifically with tribes. We will describe the history of our unique relationship, course offerings and training opportunities, and will share lessons learned. Participants will be able to apply this information in their own communities in order to successfully work with tribes on unique preparedness issues.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session paticipants will be able to

• Recognize the unique issues that tribal entities face when working with local, state and national all-hazards preparedness planners.
• Develop plans and strategies to partner with tribes in the participant's own community.
• Assess strategies used to develop and maintain an effective coalition.

Keywords: Community-Based Partnership, Bioterrorism

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No