New Technology to Fight a Pandemic Event Almost Ready for Launch
If a pandemic situation strikes, or a large scale anthrax attack, anyone exposed would likely need medication within 48 hours. This is the impetus behind a new process slated to be launched in June 2020 by the Minnesota Department of Health that consists of two applications called POD PreCheck and POD Locator.
How the Apps Would Work During a Pandemic Scare
The two apps are designed first to help residents screen for the necessary medication, and then to help them locate the medication they need – within 12 hours. POD stands for “point of dispensing” and represents the physical location where the medication would be provided during the emergency. The state would obtain the medication from the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, and then make it available at the POD location.
For residents who may have been exposed, the first step is for them to find out what medication is needed. This is the function of the POD PreCheck app. Once the correct medication is identified, the POD Locator app is used to find the location where the medication is dispensed. POD Locator also allows additional information to be communicated, such as parking instructions, traffic patterns, and other information to help people reach the designated location safely.
A related task is to make the public aware of the apps, so that they will know exactly what to do during a pandemic event. As such, the state is currently working on the communication plan, which will encompass multiple languages and multiple communication channels.
Overall, this is a great idea and applicable to utility emergency preparedness as well, because it’s tough to restore service when you’re sick. Personally, I have never (knock on wood) been exposed to a pandemic event, but if I were, it would be comforting to know that the necessary medication can be obtained in a relatively easy way. Hopefully, the June 2020 launch will be a resounding success, prompting other states to follow suit. I’ll be keeping a close eye on this one, that’s for sure.
