AtlantiCare Leads Monthly Forum of Regional First Responder Agencies

AtlantiCare’s commitment to the health of our region reaches far beyond the care delivered within the four walls of our hospitals and facilities.  Across the region, first responders, including law enforcement, public safety, EMS and clinical teams, all play a critical role in ensuring the health, safety and well-being of our communities. And in those critical moments, trust and shared understanding between these groups can make all the difference. 

Recognizing the power of stronger connections among these groups, AtlantiCare took action to bridge gaps and bring these groups together.  Several years ago, our Public Safety and Clinical Services teams launched the Atlantic County Collaborative Operations and Management Meeting (AC-COMM), a forum designed to bring first responder agencies and healthcare partners to the same table and work through operational challenges together. 

What began as a small meeting has since evolved into a multi-county coalition of 25 public safety and healthcare organizations. Today, AC-COMM represents a multidisciplinary group of clinical leaders and first responders from across our region, united by a shared commitment to improving how care and safety are delivered throughout our region. 

AC-COMM convenes monthly to address complex operational challenges at the intersection of healthcare and public safety. Through open dialogue and shared problem-solving, the group helps break down the operational silos that can sometimes delay or complicate response efforts. Just as important, it has created a direct line of communication which allows partners to align on protocols and resolve issues before they surface during emergencies. 

In December, AtlantiCare hosted a first responders luncheon to celebrate the people and partnerships that make this collaboration possible.  With more than 100 attendees, the luncheon provided AtlantiCare’s Department of Public Safety an opportunity to share and reflect upon the progress and reaffirm our collective responsibility to serve and protect our communities.   

AtlantiCare has long played a broad role as a convener and catalyst for regional change. Through efforts like AC-COMM, we continue to bring people together and help shape a safer and stronger future for all who call this region home. 

Thank you to our public safety partners for your service and for coming together in support of the communities we all serve.