The Near Southwest Preparedness Alliance exists for one simple reason: to support the healthcare infrastructure of Southwestern Virginia with disaster preparedness, response, recovery and mitigation resources. In other words, we help keep the doors of healthcare open when disaster strikes. Improving healthcare intelligence with real-time situational awareness before, during and after disaster Our coalition is led by a dynamic board of directors and a capable, dedicated staff. The coalition is largely made up of hospital and healthcare leadership who understand the importance of preparedness efforts to their ability to care for patients and conduct business. The coalition’s efforts are funded via federal grant distributed to the Virginia Department of Health from the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response as part of the Hospital Preparedness Program. VDH contracts with the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association to further distribute those funds to six healthcare coalitions throughout the commonwealth.