Marg Pollon on building bridges before a crisis

Responding in Partnership to Pandemics

As we sift through the material that is inundating our world on every front, we begin to realize the far reaching effects and impact that an influenza pandemic would have, not only on our communities but also on the provision of public health services and other essential services, not to mention the economy.

Stockwell Day, the minister of public safety, stated, “The Department of Public Safety and Public Health Agency of Canada are working together to address issues which relate to a possible pandemic and its societal impacts. At the federal level, much work has been undertaken in the areas of international issues, federal business continuity and human resources, public health and emergency management, communications, economic and social impact and with the private sector.”

Public Safety, through national organizations, is also engaged in discussions with non-governmental organizations on issues regarding community engagement. In order to ensure a fully coordinated response, we must work in partnership with associations and umbrella groups. This will afford an opportunity to share ideas and strategies for providing the best level of care.

An influenza pandemic is much more than just a problem for the healthcare system – it is a societal problem. A pandemic will be best managed by the coordinated participation and cooperation of governments, businesses, organizations, churches/ministries and individuals.

This unique emergency with catastrophic effects is something we have not yet experienced. At this point we can only speculate on the impact, but we know the devastation can be minimized if we prepare in advance and have a contingency plan in place.

The faith community has an opportunity to play an integral role building a bridge of love from the church to the healthcare authorities and beyond. The demand on the system will be so immense that it will be necessary to have alternative care mechanisms in place, which can then be mobilized quickly when the need arises.

To reduce fear and anxiety, education and a preparedness plan will greatly reduce panic and thus ineffectiveness. How each engage in the process is still the ‘million dollar question.’ We are, however, encouraging churches, ministries, and NGO’s to be intentional in gathering information and resources that are available in one’s city/community and through the internet and begin a dialogue with other concerned individuals. Those might include pastors, doctors, parish nurses, chaplains, trained emergency workers, healthcare professionals, and other lay people.

Whether an influenza pandemic comes this year or in the next 5-7 years, could we not use this time to further equip our churches to reach out to our hurting communities – our neighbours – in concrete, understandable, compassionate and life-transforming ways? They are not hurting now. They will hurt should another epidemic come along. Virtually all preparations made will serve us well in dealing with other emergencies, small and large alike.

Are we ready to reach out and get to know our neighbour and show God’s love in our communities. Are we ready to serve and comfort those afflicted, dying, or seriously ill?

To ensure an effective and coordinated response to a pandemic let us work together. For further information, please go to www.churchresponse.org or www.bridgesoflove.net and download resource material that is available to help facilitate discussion towards your action strategy.

Do you have thoughts about education & research you’d like to share with your colleagues? Send an e-mail to info@PlainViews.org.