Medical Reserve Corps
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer organization comprised of community members who assist in the event of an emergency.
As part of our disaster response efforts, MRC members will be called to help county and state officials protect human health. This may include dispensing medical countermeasures (such as antibiotics or vaccines), helping with outbreak investigations, caring for first responders, patient screening, as well as other duties and assignments as necessary.
In a public health emergency, a wide variety of skills are needed. The Allegheny County Health Department welcomes volunteers from all disciplines and fields of work. Many community members can fill important key positions with or without any experience in medicine.
If you are interested in joining the Medical Reserve Corps, please register on the State Emergency Registry of Volunteers in Pennsylvania website. Under "Organizations," please select "Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) > Allegheny County Health Department" and then complete the registration.
About
The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a federal initiative that enlists volunteers (medical and non-medical) to share their expertise in response to natural, man-made, and terroristic events.
Under the direction of the Allegheny County Health Department, the MRC handles the recruiting, training, and deployment of volunteer resources within the 13 counties of Western Pennsylvania (known as Region 13).
The goal is to increase surge capacity at local hospitals and mass care sites. MRC members agree to assist in an emergency only after they have satisfied commitments to their own organizations, private practices, and families. Volunteer opportunities may be in Allegheny County or in any of the twelve neighboring counties in western Pennsylvania.
Who Can Join?
The MRC accepts licensed and credentialed professionals from a variety of backgrounds including practicing or retired medical and non-medical professionals and support staff, such as:
- Physicians (All specialties)
- Physician Assistants
- Nurses (RN's, LPN's, Nurse Practitioners)
- Pharmacists
- EMTs and Paramedics
- Dentists
- Veterinarians
- Behavioral Health Specialists (Social Workers, Psychologists, Counsellors)
- Pastoral Care Professionals
- Epidemiologists
- Infectious Disease Investigators
- Risk Communicators
- Communication Specialists
- IT Professionals
- Security Personnel
- Clerical Staff
- Translators
What Types of Activities are Members Asked to Participate In?
Volunteers will be asked to attend:
- Various preparedness trainings
- Public health activities
- Community emergency drills and exercises