Local health departments (LHDs) play a critical role in distributing medical countermeasures during public health emergencies—but a recent NACCHO analysis shows that LHDs continue to face significant challenges in sustaining effective stockpiles.
Based on listening sessions conducted with local public health preparedness professionals from across the United States, the report highlights a shifting landscape: while most LHDs maintain stockpiles, they primarily consist of PPE, reflecting ongoing instability and constraints related to funding, storage, and workforce capacity.
Key Takeaways
- Collaboration with healthcare, pharmacy, and emergency management partners strengthens distribution and access.
- Practicality shapes inventory. PPE remains the most feasible asset due to cost and ease of management.
- Coordination structures, systems, and agreements differ widely.
- Funding instability, limited staffing, data challenges, and supply chain risks continue to impact local readiness.
The analysis also points to a path forward, emphasizing shared stockpile models, stronger coordination across partners, and investment in sustainable systems and infrastructure.
Call to Action
Read the full report to explore the findings and actionable considerations to strengthen jurisdictional stockpiling and improve emergency response readiness.
Click here to access the full analysis and recommendations.
Stay Engaged
NACCHO is continuing the conversation through listening sessions in July of 2026 on medical supply chain disruptions. Don’t miss the opportunity to share your insights and learn from peers.
Click here to express interest in an upcoming listening session.
