Embedding Equity in a Local Government's Response to COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Equity
• Emergency Management

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing inequities, particularly affecting communities of color in the U.S.
• Washington County, Oregon, was the first in the state to confirm a COVID-19 case, necessitating rapid emergency response.
• Existing emergency response structures often failed to adequately address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To integrate an equity-centered approach into the Washington County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To develop and implement an equity framework to guide decision-making and resource allocation.
• To improve the identification and equitable addressing of urgent community needs.

Main Methods:

• Creation of new EOC positions: Equity Officer, Equity Technical Advisor, and Language Access Coordinator.
• Formation of an dedicated Equity Team within the EOC.
• Engagement with stakeholders and community partners to inform the equity framework development.
• Development of an equity framework to guide EOC operations and decision-making.

Main Results:

• The equity framework facilitated a more accurate identification of urgent community needs, especially for disproportionately impacted groups.
• Enhanced collaboration between the EOC and community partners.
• Improved capacity for developing equitable programs, policies, and procedures.
• Successful centering of equity within emergency operations.

Conclusions:

• Integrating an equity-centered framework into emergency operations is crucial for addressing pandemic impacts on vulnerable communities.
• Dedicated roles and teams focused on equity enhance the effectiveness of emergency response.
• This model supports government and community efforts to build more equitable systems for future crises.