How Your Organization Can Become a Point Of Dispensing (POD) Site
In the event of a public health emergency, your help will be needed.
Volunteer Today. Join the POD Team.
Join the POD Team Brochure (PDF)
Definition of a POD
What is a POD? In public health terms, a POD means Point of Dispensing. A POD is a location where medications are dispensed to a specific group of people. PODS are needed in the event of a public health emergency where medications need to be distributed to a large number of residents very quickly. This is done in certain situations to reduce or eliminate the spread of contagious bacteria and viruses from person-to-person, which can affect those in an even larger geographic area.
Types of PODs
The government provides Public PODs. Private organizations provide Closed PODs. Closed PODs may be used when medications must be distributed to a large number of residents very quickly in the event of a public health emergency. Closed PODs can help reduce longer lines that may occur at Public PODs, and allow a more efficient use of local resources. The use of Closed Pods allows health departments and local authorities, such as the police and fire departments, to reach people more efficiently. A public health emergency, such as a flu or smallpox pandemic, or an anthrax bioterrorism threat, can cause fear and panic.
Join our POD Team and Help Your Community
Members of the following organizations, educational institutions and entities may train to join the Prince George's County Health Department’s POD Team:
- hospitals
- military installations
- schools or universities
- faith-based organizations
- businesses
Benefits to You
- broaden your knowledge of emergency preparedness
- increase the protection level of your community
- ensure continuous operation of your organization
- establish and maintain an ongoing relationship with the Health Department to stay informed about resources and services
Your POD Team Role
- develop a Closed POD plan for your organization
- participate in trainings and exercises
- maintain Closed POD supplies and equipment
- dispense medications as necessary with the guidance of Health Department staff
Our POD Team Role
- coordinate emergency planning
- provide ongoing technical assistance
- provide medications during an emergency
- assist with Closed POD activation, operation and recovery efforts
Contact Us Today!
301-883-7623 | TTY/STS Dial 711 for MD Relay
HDEmergencyPreparedness@co.pg.md.us
www.princegeorgescountymd.gov/health
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