“A new assessment of the nation’s preparedness for a community health emergency paints a picture of deep regional disparities. The National Health Preparedness Index ranks countries and regions on a scale of how prepared they are to deal with a health security threat, like a Zika outbreak or a natural disaster. It takes into account everything from vaccination rates, to hazard plans at public schools, to the number of paramedics and hospitals available. Nationally, the US scores 6.8 on the 10-point scale; Vermont, at the top of the list, received a 7.8 for its health emergency preparedness while Alaska, sitting at the bottom, received a 5.9. The authors of the new report say it highlights where more work is urgently needed to prepare for an emergency.” - SOURCE: STATnews Morning Rounds