Governor Schwarzenegger Proposes Record Investment to Strengthen California�s Public Health Response
Helping to ensure the state's health care system meets the widespread medical needs of all Californians when any man-made or natural disaster strikes, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today highlighted his record budget proposal to enhance California's emergency preparedness.
"California is more prepared today than ever before and we have taken many steps to ensure a swift and complete response to an emergency," said Governor Schwarzenegger. But I'm not willing to gamble with the safety of Californians. You can never be too prepared and with the potential of a pandemic flu outbreak, I felt it was necessary for the state to help out and do more.
The Governor�s budget calls for $400 million for surge capacity, the largest investment of any state in the nation to support the health care delivery system�s ability to expand quickly to meet increased needs during a public health emergency.
This investment, which has not been fully funded by the legislature, would allow the state to purchase deployable mobile field hospitals, antiviral drugs, ventilators, protective equipment, and other tools to increase patient care capacity. In addition, funding could be used to assist hospitals with surge capacity planning, and updating infection control and emergency response regulations statewide.
The Governor has focused on preparing the state for a wide variety of natural and man-made disasters, including earthquakes, floods, fires, terrorist attacks and emerging diseases like pandemic flu. His achievements and investment include: Securing more than $1 billion in federal funds for homeland security and public health.
Allocating $67 million in State Homeland Security Grant Funds to first responder resources in every county. Facilitating the training of over 100,000 first responders. Making California party to the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Allocating more than $25 million for fire protection. Signing legislation to appropriate more than $7 million in current year funding to bolster emergency preparedness activities in California. Supporting legislation to create a separate Department of Public Health.
First Lady Maria Shriver has led the �Be Smart, Be Responsible, Be Prepared. Get Ready.� disaster preparedness public awareness campaign to educate Californians about the importance of having family disaster plans.
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06/23 - Schwarzenegger Proposes Record Investment to Strengthen California�s Public Health Response
