Needs of At-Risk Populations
In preparation for potential public health emergencies, the South Dakota Hospital Preparedness Program has developed regional plans for populations considered to be 'at-risk', 'vulnerable', or having 'special needs' due to factors such as financial circumstances, place of residence, age, ability to communicate, functional or development status, and/or the presence of chronic illness or disability. The plan is based on identifying the at-risk populations with our four Regions and community based organizations and agencies that serve them.