HONOLULU – Hospital workers on Hawai`i, Kaua`i, Lana`i, Maui, Moloka`i and O`ahu will participate today in the Department of Health's and Healthcare Association of Hawai`i's statewide emergency-preparedness exercise structured around a mock bioterrorism attack. The exercise is designed to test, document and improve the state's ability to distribute medication to hospital workers in the event of an anthrax attack.

"As part of our public health emergency plan, we want to make sure Hawai`i's healthcare providers are one of the first groups to receive medication," said state Director of Health Chiyome Fukino. "It's essential they be able to continue to provide care to the public during a disaster situation in order to treat and reduce illness for their patients."

The exercise will simulate hospital response to the threat of possible anthrax exposure. The scenario includes a simulated activation of the Strategic National Stockpile. The SNS is a large national supply of antibiotics, chemical antidotes, antitoxins, life-support medications and medical/surgical items. It is designed to supplement and re-supply state and local public health agencies in the event of a national emergency anywhere and at anytime within the U.S. or its territories. The exercise simulates the receipt, storage, tracking and delivery of medication to participating hospitals and distribution to staff.

"We're not just going to wait for something to happen," said Toby Clairmont, director of emergency services for the Healthcare Association of Hawaii. "Hospitals, nursing facilities and other Hawai`i heathcare providers have been working with the Department of Health to plan and prepare for public health emergencies for over 65 years. We've made considerable progress since the September 11th attacks in developing an effective preparedness and response program."

Castle Medical Center, Hawai`i Medical Center (East and West), Kaiser Foundation Hospital, Straub Clinic and Hospital and The Queen's Medical Center will participate on O`ahu. Hilo Medical Center and Kona Community Hospital will take part in the exercise on the Big Island. Maui Memorial Medical Center, Wilcox Memorial Hospital on Kaua`i, Lana`i Community Hospital and Moloka`i General Hospital will also participate.