As a faith-based organization, Advocate South Suburban Hospital understands the importance of spiritual healing and religion for many people during a personal health crisis.  Congregational leaders can play a vital role during serious medical events for both the patient and family. The hospital regularly offers programs to its congregational partners to enhance their skills and understanding for providing effective pastoral care to parishioners.  Advocate South Hospital will host a seminar for area clergy on Friday, October 23, to discuss emergency preparedness issues. The program will be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the auditorium at Advocate South Suburban Hospital. The hospital is located at 17800 S. Kedzie Avenue, in Hazel Crest, Ill. 

Stephanie Dralle, coordinator of emergency medical services and emergency preparedness at Advocate South Suburban Hospital, will speak about how churches prepare to response to emergencies. Topics discussed will include: different phases of disaster for church responses; resources for church preparedness, response, and recovery; individuals with special needs; maintaining emergency supplies; surviving a disaster and being there for the community afterwards; and preparing and responding to the H1N1 flu. 

"While it is nearly impossible to predict when a disaster will strike, preparation is key," Dralle said. "Taking the time to prepare before an emergency will make a huge difference." 

Clergy members interested in the program can sign up by calling 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622). 

Advocate South Suburban Hospital is a 289-bed, acute care facility that serves Chicago's south suburbs.  In addition to offering a wide array of hospital services, the not-for-profit facility provides free screenings and a variety of other outreach services throughout the community.  Advocate South Suburban Hospital is part of Advocate Health Care, one of the leading, integrated health care systems in the nation.  More information about the hospital and its physicians can be found at www.advocatehealth.com/southsub or by calling 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622).