Moving Public Health Preparedness Forward: Assessing Progress, Gaps, and Future Strategies

Friday February 19th, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Room: Atrium Ballroom

Plenary

Session Number:

A presentation previewing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s new state preparedness report opens this plenary session, setting the stage for reflection and discussion of recent achievements and key challenges. Following the presentation, a panel of public health leaders will offer their views on topics ranging from strengthening surveillance systems to workforce surge issues and the H1N1 response. The floor will then open for a question and answer session with the audience. This plenary session will provide attendees with a common understanding of preparedness progress and challenges at national, state, and local levels, as well as an opportunity to engage in discussion with senior leaders to identify the most important gaps we face and critical priorities for the future. 

Introductory Remarks:

Thomas R. Frieden, MD, MPH
Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Panelists:

Dan Sosin, MD, MPH, FACP
Acting Director, Coordinating Office for Terrorism Preparedness and Emergency Response, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Herminia Palacio, MD, MPH
Executive Director, Harris County Public Health and Environmental Services (TX)

Robert Burhans
Director, Office of Health Emergency Preparedness, New York State Department of Health