Rapid Deployment Forces

Rapid Deployment Forces (RDF) assist state, trible, and local health authorities throughout the U.S. in response to ESF-8 or non-ESF-8 public health emergencies. If a state, tribal or local healthcare provider infrastructure suffers damage from a natural disaster or other event, RDF teams can assist officials in response and recovery efforts. Assistance can include augmenting the local health work force to speed up response or recovery, or, with especially difficult matters, assisting or advising health decision-makers. Each RDF can also provide essential services to preserve the lives and the health of affected and returning populations.