PHD seeking call center volunteers

Panhandle Health District is in need of volunteers to assist in the COVID-19 call center that the district has been operating since early March.

The call center was established to answer questions from the public regarding COVID-19. Since its inception, call operators have fielded around 10,000 calls.

“Our volunteers have been amazing, but some are in need of much-deserved break,” said Nan Swendig, Medical Reserve Corps volunteer coordinator. “Some of our volunteers have put in over 300 hours of volunteer time working in the call center.”

The MRC is made up of community members with and without medical training, as well as public health professionals. These individuals sign up to serve as community volunteers during natural disasters, emergencies, and public health incidents. Since those types of occurrences aren’t happening all the time in this area, the MRC stays busy year-round with trainings and attending events together to keep their skills sharp.

“This pandemic has put us to the test,” said Swendig. “Our volunteers have really risen to the challenge and we would not have been able to manage this pandemic without their assistance. We cannot thank them enough.”

To volunteer with the MRC, visit www.volunteeridaho.com to register. If you have questions during the registration process you may contact: Nanette Swendig, MRC Unit Coordinator at 208-415-5185 or mrc@phd1.idaho.gov.

For more information regarding COVID-19, visit panhandlehealthdistrict.org/covid-19 or call the Panhandle Health District Hotline Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. at 877-415-5225.