UC Davis experts, along with colleagues from Stanford University and Battelle Memorial Institute, will identify and validate benchmarks and standards to better assess levels of readiness for handling victims within healthcare facilities such as hospitals and alternative care sites after a disaster or pandemic occurs. Funded by a $674,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, the research will help government decision-makers better understand gaps in disaster planning and readiness. Professor Patrick Romano is the clinical team leader for the new project at the UC Davis Center for Healthcare Policy and Research.