VHASS History

System development began early in 2002 with funding from the federal government to enhance the distribution of critical emergency management information needed by Virginia hospitals and health care providers to help these entities better prepare for and manage mass casualty incidents.

Early development focused on the need for a communication and collaboration tool for hospital and healthcare workers involved or potentially involved in hospital emergency preparedness activities. The system has grown since that time due to various HRSA, and now ASPR, requirements and ongoing user/organization needs, requirements, and suggestions.

In 2016 the system was completely redeveloped and updated for newer technologies including tablet and mobile devices. The updated application also includes a new Events / Situation Reporting (SitRep) module. This enhancement allows Public Health and Healthcare organizations to better collaborate during MCIs.

Today the system is a robust, multifaceted system that helps the Virginia hospital and healthcare infrastructure better prepare, communicate, collaborate, and report conditions and statuses during incidents.

The project has been funded by HHS/AHRQ (HRSA/ASPR programs) and managed by a coordination/collaboration between the Virginia Department of Health and the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association. Virginia’s goal was to develop a sustainable solution.

If you have any questions or would like a demonstration of the system, please &contact us& and we’ll be glad to walk you through the application.