This training will provide the necessary skills to follow established procedures that allow for the safe and efficient evacuation of patients in the event of a forecasted event impacting one or more healthcare facilities. The intent is not to replace individual facility evacuation plans. 

The patient placement boards and transportation team are support tools than may be utilized by facilities, as needed. There is no requirement for facilities to use the tools and assistance in this SOP. Facilities will remain in command and control of their evacuations and are encouraged to activate their primary evacuation plans before requesting state assistance for transportation. 

Patient Placement Boards may be used at any time, without a declaration or a resource request. 

State Transportation Assistance will require a resource request processed by the local EMA before transportation is assigned.