The Island of Puerto Rico continues to deal with constant tremors and aftershocks from the recent earthquakes that devastated the area. These recent events continue to have a profound effect on local residents.
The six MediSys Mental Health providers, who are part of the team of 26 professionals assembled by the Greater New York Health Association are now deployed and have begun to do their part to assist. The team has remained in contact with our hospital leadership and the Department of Emergency Management to provide daily updates on their efforts.
Their initial reports indicate that the mission is very well organized. The team shares
that they depart from their hotel early each morning and head to their relief effort assignments on the Island.
One team, led by Dr. Martha Edelman has been assigned to camp settings in various locations. This team has also lent their support at a park that is currently being used as an informal school for the children.
The other team, led by Dr. Attilio Rizzo, has been deployed to different neighborhoods, especially in the mountainous areas, where they conduct door to door canvassing and provide home visits to those in need.
Both teams describe a great deal of destruction to homes and properties but feel that those they have encountered are very appreciative of their efforts. They report that morale is high and everyone is working well together.
We commend the MediSys team for the work that they are doing and the support that they are giving to the people of Puerto Rico.