The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded $840 million to state and local healthcare systems to improve emergency preparedness. The grants were distributed through two federal preparedness programs--the Hospital Preparedness Program and the Public Health Emergency Preparedness programs. The funds will allow local communities to respond effectively to infectious disease outbreaks, natural disasters, or chemical, biological, or radiological nuclear events. "Events in the last few years have demonstrated how critical it is for health systems across the country to be ready and able to respond quickly and effectively," said Nicole Lurie, M.D., assistant secretary for preparedness and response, in a statement. Announcement