WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital hosts successful emergency preparedness drill with community partners

UNIONTOWN, Pa. – WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital conducted a large-scale mass casualty drill on the hospital campus on Tuesday, Sept. 9. 

The exercise simulated a bus and vehicle collision and involved hospital staff, local fire and police departments, emergency medical services, and other community organizations. 

“One of our main goals with this and any of our emergency preparedness drills is to make sure our staff are prepared,” Michael Bittner, chief and director of the Uniontown Hospital Police Department, said. “It gives us an opportunity to review our response efforts and identify areas for improvement, so that we can serve our community well if a situation like this would happen in the future.”

The drill tested rapid triage, treatment, and coordination procedures in a high-pressure setting. More than 50 participants were involved, including individuals portraying victims, parents, and media personnel, helping to add to the realism of the event. 

“This exercise not only increased our level of preparedness but also served to build trust and strengthen relationships between community partners and emergency response personnel,” Karyn Wallace, president and CEO of WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, said. “We are fortunate to be part of such a collaborative and caring community.”

For more information about WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital, visit WVUMedicine.org/Uniontown.