Department of Health director says Missouri can fight bioterrorism

November 1, 2001
By: Rachel Busacker
State Capital Bureau
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OutCue: SOC The Director of the Department of Health says Missouri is prepared against bioterrorism but does not have all the answers. Rachel Busacker has the story from Jefferson City.

In a senate committee hearing, Director Maureen Dempsey said Missouri is ready to combat a bioterrorism attack, but there is still room for improvement.

Actuality:Dempsey3
RunTime: 10
OutCue: ...experience and expertise
Contents: Dempsey says Missouri is prepared but lacks experience and expertise in some areas.

Dempsey said communication is regular between Emergency Management and Public Health, but stronger relationships are needed with non-traditional partners.

Dempsey said it may seem the department is unprepared but that answers will only come with time.

Actuality:Dempsey2
RunTime: 15
OutCue: ...currently we can do that
Contents: Dempsey says you have to wait for something to happen and then respond. It is not as efficient as prevention, but at this time is an appropriate response.

In Jefferson City, this is Rachel Busacker for KMOX News.

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