Casualty Assistance Program/CISM/Hospital Liason

 PNWTC Training Offerings:

February 10-12, 2026              Basic CISM                       Redmond, Or      Paul Zerr

February 18-20, 2026     Hospital Family Liaison        Redmond, Or       Paul Zerr

• See the CAP Course catalog below for sign-up information.

If you have interest in Learning more, email paul.zerr@usda.gov 

• Course Title: N-9069 Family and Hospital Liaison Training

• Date: April 21-23 (the 23rd will be a half day)

• Location: Wenatchee (likely at the SO)

• Duration: 2-1/2 days

• How to sign up: Use link above or Contact Mike Kelly at michael.kelly@usda.gov or (509)669-4455  

The Forest Service's Family and Hospital Liaison Program is a compassionate and structured initiative designed to support employees and their families during medical emergencies, particularly when hospitalization is required due to injury or illness.  The program is centered around the principle of “taking care of our own.”

Hospital Liaisons are trained to be able to:

• Respond to medical facilities to assist the injured employee and their family.

• Identify themselves to hospital staff and family as the agency liaison.

• Coordinate updates on the patient’s condition and ensure family members are informed.

• Arrange private waiting areas for family and coworkers when possible.

• Assist with paperwork, OWCP forms, and billing coordination.

• Ensure personal belongings are secured and logistical needs (transportation, lodging, meals) are met.

• Maintain communication with supervisors, safety officers, and incident personnel.

• Support the family throughout the hospital stay and during recovery

Family Liaison

In incidents involving serious injury or fatality, a Family Liaison may be assigned. This role includes:

• Acting as a direct communication link between the agency and the family.

• Attending incident planning meetings to gather and relay appropriate information.

• Providing logistical support such as housing, meeting space, and access to counseling or chaplain services.

• Ensuring family privacy and emotional support during critical times

You don’t have to commit to anything to attend the training.  We will need you to have HLIA trainee added to your red card, but you are not required to make yourself available for assignments.  We also ask you to consider assisting employees who get injured or ill when you can.  It would be awesome if you choose to become a hospital liaison, family liaison, or both!  Please reach out to me if you have any questions.  Thank you!