DAYTONA BEACH – The Volusia County Health Department is partnering with Volusia County Emergency Management and the United Way of Volusia-Flagler counties to form the area’s first Medical Reserve Corps to assist during disaster emergency responses.

The Medical Reserve Corps will consist of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, epidemiologists, health support techs and others who are interested in responding to emergencies in Volusia County that require medical attention.

Volunteers with proper medical credentials will also be expected to assist the health department in staffing the county’s special needs shelters during emergencies.

“This is a great opportunity for Volusia County to strengthen its disaster response with a Medical Reserve Corps to help out,” said Dr. Thomas Coleman, director of the Volusia County Health Department. “It is important to build this strong alliance now so when we are faced with a disaster situation we are better prepared.”

Medical Reserve Corps are community-based and use local volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to promote healthy living. The Medical Reserve Corps volunteers supplement existing local emergency and public health resources. They also assist local hospitals and health departments with surge personnel needs. These volunteers are medical and non-medical professionals.

To find out how you can volunteer for the Volusia County Medical Reserve Corps, please contact Vince Soto, VCHD preparedness coordinator, at (386) 736-5436.