Emergency Preparedness

The Emergency Preparedness Branch provides a leadership role and support to the health sector and government on emergency preparedness. The Branch works directly with the Provincial Health Services Authority, Health Authorities, Health Canada and the Provincial Emergency Program, as well as other government agencies to facilitate the development, maintenance and exercising of all-hazards emergency plans.

In any emergency where the health of British Columbians is put at risk, the Ministry of Health Services is required to provide technical support and leadership in the overall provincial response. The Emergency Preparedness Branch leads and coordinates the development of emergency plans with key agencies.

This Emergency Preparedness branch is responsible for maintaining an internal disaster management master plan that guides the operations of the ministries during significant emergencies. It also coordinates an ongoing business continuity planning process with mission critical and priority business programs.