As some readers may know, I was a diplomat for 24 years with the Department of State before starting my Patient Navigator business. I retired from Federal service on December 31, 2008.
One thing I can safely say: your Federal Government is well-prepared to cope with an epidemic or pandemic. When in 2006-2007 it looked like Avian flu might spread dramatically, the government spent considerable resources to put in place systems, procedures and training to deal with an outbreak. Policies were coordinated globally and with U.S. States.
Too many people, especially Republicans, are fond of gratuitously criticizing the Federal government and its employees. No one ever praises the career civil service when things go right. (Good news doesn’t sell). You should feel relieved to know that if the swine flu disease spreads, the U.S. is prepared to cope with it. The foresight, planning and resources devoted to preparing for a pandemic are a true success story. Kudos to hard-working public servants across multiple U.S. agencies who made this happen.
Elisabeth, I love good news. It is always good to hear from
someone who has worked in an area and give the proper
slant to things. Too many people give opinions about things they know little or nothing about. We should do our homework first, then open mouth. Thanks for the reassurance. Kay York