Learn How Pampa Regional Medical Center Prepares for Disasters

On June 15, the therapy services department at Pampa Regional Medical Center in Pampa, Texas went on call for the hospital’s disaster protocol. As severe weather began to hit, Perryton — a small town located just sixty-two miles north of the facility — braced for tornadoes and hail.

“The hospital has an established disaster protocol wherein department heads are mobilized and instructed to report to incident command and manage their respective departments,” explained Rehab Director, Matt Batdorff, OTR/L.

Rehab Director, Matthew Batdorff, OTR/L, leads RehabVisions’ therapy services team at Pampa Regional Medical Center at Pampa, Texas.

“In the event of a disaster, physical therapists assist with mobile wounded, while occupational therapists handle sitter needs for children, the elderly and pets,” said Matt. “Our entire team was prepared to fulfill the hospital’s needs.”

Mother Nature unleashed her fury as an F3 tornado tore through Perryton in the late afternoon, killing several people and injuring over 100 more.

Main street and surrounding homes were severely affected, but the hospital and clinic were spared from the tornado’s destruction.

“Ochiltree General Hospital in Perryton and an adjacent hospital were able to handle the majority of patients — except for fewer than a dozen, which we received — so no disaster protocol was declared for Pampa Regional,” said Matt.

In the end, we are proud our team was ready for the call.

A strong therapy  department offers a wide range of benefits for rural healthcare providers.

Learn how a partnership with RehabVisions can benefit your hospital, patients and community — as well as your bottom line.