MDH Announces New Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

MACOMB, Ill. – McDonough District Hospital welcomes Edgar Rodriguez as the new Emergency Preparedness Coordinator.

Rodriguez, who will work part-time at MDH in this new role, will continue his work with McDonough County as the Emergency Services and Disaster Agency (ESDA) Director, a role he has served in since April 2018.

He has played an important role for Macomb and McDonough County during the COVID-19 pandemic, working closely with MDH while coordinating the emergency response and setting up the county’s Emergency Operations Center. He works closely with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and maintains grants to fund the ESDA operations in McDonough County.

“Whether it is a natural disaster or a sustained public health crisis, we have identified the need to bolster our emergency preparedness efforts,” said Wanda Foster, RN, MSN, FACHE, MDH Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer. “Edgar’s extensive knowledge in this field has been a tremendous help for us and we are excited he has joined MDH to lead our emergency management program.”

Rodriguez served in the United States Army for over five years, stationed primarily in Virginia. During his tenure, he served with the 3rd Infantry Regiment “The Old Guard”. He received several Military awards, including: Army Commendation Medal, Joint Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, Meritorious Outstanding Volunteer Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, and Meritorious Outstanding Volunteer Medal to name a few.

Following his discharge, Rodriguez also received the President’s Volunteer Service Award.