Midlands Healthcare Coalition
The Midlands Healthcare Coalition (MHCC) has evolved significantly since its establishment in April 2013. Initially, healthcare facilities, primarily hospitals, convened with the Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) as an Essential Services Function #8 (Health& Medical) group. Simultaneously, a separate meeting called the MMRS/CRI group included healthcare facilities, DHEC, Fire, EMS, State Guard, county Emergency Managers, and other Cities Readiness Partners.
In a strategic move in April 2013, both groups merged to form the Midlands Healthcare Coalition, expanding its membership to include various entities involved in healthcare preparedness, response, and recovery across the twelve counties in the Midlands Region: Aiken, Barnwell, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Lexington, Newberry, Richland, Saluda, and York Counties.
Since its inception, the coalition has grown exponentially, boasting 160+ entities and 350+ members. Monthly meetings, once attended by an average of 85 people, shifted to a virtual format in 2020 due to the pandemic, with around 50 attendees on average. The coalition has effectively addressed specific issues through subcommittees, collaborated on exercises and events, and provided multiple training sessions.
The Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), developed in 2017, incorporates existing plans required by the Assistant Secretary Preparedness & Response Hospital Preparedness Program Grant. The inclusion of Coalition Guidelines, HCC Continuity of Operations Plan, Regional Coordination Center Guide, Regional Hazard Vulnerability Analysis, Asset List, and Standard Operating Procedures demonstrates a comprehensive approach to preparedness.
In 2022, the coalition took a significant step by approving Operational Bylaws, providing guidance for its operation and establishing an Executive Committee responsible for key aspects such as meeting logistics, facilitation, agenda development, minute maintenance, and approval of grant projects.