Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)

What is the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC)?

The Medical Reserve Corps is a national network of roughly 800 MRC Units across the country, including U.S. Territories, with more than 300,000 volunteers working to strengthen public health, prepare for and respond to disasters, and build community resilience.

MRC volunteers also assist with non emergency activities and events within their communities.

Why is the MRC needed?

The need for the MRC became apparent after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, when medical and public health professionals, eager to volunteer in support of emergency relief activities, found that there was no organized approach to channel their efforts.

First Step

The first step to joining the MRC is to fill out an application online at the New Jersey Learning Management Network website.

MRC volunteers will be provided with training and education in order to be adequately prepared should a public health emergency occur. The New Jersey Department of Health provides local MRC units with guidelines and recommendations for training.

Some examples of MRC activities include:

• Emergency preparedness and response trainings and exercises
• Emergency shelter operations
• Mass dispensing efforts (i.e. medication, water, other supplies)
• Disease testing and surveillance
• Community vaccination clinics
• Community education and outreach
• Support services to call centers, family assistance centers, and reception/evacuation centers

For information on how to become a member of the Atlantic County Public Health Medical Reserve Corps contact: MRC Coordinator at 609 645-7700 ext. 4244.