Two Ada organizations are part of a newly established Hardin County Healthcare Coalition, according to Kevin Risner, emergency preparedness coordinator for the Kenton-Hardin Health Department and newly elected chair of the heathcare coalition.

Representing Ada at the organizational meeting on Wednesday were persons from Ohio Northern University HealthWise and Vancrest of Ada.

The coalition includes various health-related agencies and individuals in the county. It will provide a structure for health care-related emergency planning. The  meeting was in the Hardin County Sheriff’s office.

Other agencies represented include OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital, Hardin County EMA, Kenton City Fire Department, Hardin Hills and Kenton-Hardin Health Department.

Risner said that other agencies have expressed interest in participating but were likely just unable to attend the meeting. Michelle Wright of OhioHealth Hardin Memorial Hospital is vice-chair of the group.

“The two benefits for coalition partners and county residents are relationship-building within the group and communication,” said Risner.

The mission of the coalition is to promote regional emergency response coordination through cooperative planning, training, and exercising to jointly respond to human-made or natural emergencies.

Hardin County has had the unofficial framework of a healthcare coalition for several years, according to Risner. This is the first time the county has officially established the coalition with bylaws, documentation and meetings.

Until now, Hardin County was the only county within a 15-county region to not have an officially established healthcare coalition. The parent agency for the coalition is Central Ohio Trauma System in Columbus. COTS provides the regional and state expertise and guidance to strengthen and help maintain the local coalitions under its wings.

Coalition members will meet again in October. Risner said he is hopeful that other agencies and individuals will join in the coalition to strengthen the group and to gain access to the benefits of belonging.

Those interested in learning more can contact Risner at 419-673-6230 ext. 1808.