Baltimore City Hospitals Announce Agreement for Cooperation in Emergencies

Mayor Sheila Dixon and the leaders of Baltimore City hospitals announced a historic agreement for cooperation in the event of a bioterrorist attack or other public health catastrophe.

The agreement includes a Memorandum of Understanding, signed in April 2006, that permits the sharing of staff and supplies among city hospitals. It also includes a new plan for coordination of mutual aid through the city's emergency operations center.

"Just as our first responders talk to each other through interoperable communications equipment, this step means that our hospitals can collaborate efficiently in the midst of a serious event," said Mayor Dixon.

Hospitals covered by the Memorandum of Understanding include:

• Bon Secours Hospital;
• Good Samaritan Hospital;