A full-scale emergency response exercise was held at Community Medical Center in Toms River in partnership with the Ocean County EMS Coordinators, and the Manchester, Jackson, and Lakewood EMS departments.

The exercise simulated an off-site Mass Casualty Incident (MCI), resulting in a sudden influx of patients and a significant surge to the hospital’s Emergency Department. Participants tested patient movement, communications, resource coordination, hospital surge procedures, and overall emergency response operations.

As an additional component, the exercise included a simulated Highly Contagious Infectious Disease (HCID) patient requiring advanced evaluation and care. Responders tested notification procedures, infection-control precautions, patient isolation, responder safety, and coordination between EMS, public safety, and hospital personnel.

Officials said full-scale exercises provide an opportunity to identify strengths, recognize areas for improvement, and ensure emergency plans and procedures can be effectively implemented during a real emergency.

The exercise brought together healthcare professionals, EMS, emergency management, and public safety personnel to strengthen inter-agency communication, collaboration, and operational readiness during large-scale emergencies.