Fischer Applauds UNMC Designation as Premier Ebola Training and Education Center

Press Release

This afternoon, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) designated the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) as a National Ebola Training and Education Center. U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) released the following statement this afternoon, applauding UNMC:

"Nebraska is leading the nation in health research and treatment. Today's designation by HHS shows that the men and women of UNMC have achieved remarkable advancements in the fight against dangerous diseases.

"Congratulations to Chancellor Gold and the staff of UNMC on this well-deserved achievement."

For over ten years, UNMC has prepared for the treatment of Ebola and other highly-infectious agents. Senator Fischer has worked closely with UNMC to aid federal efforts for treatment and push for proactive policies and strategies to address outbreaks.

Senator Fischer sent a letter in January to HHS Secretary Burwell regarding this designation, and encouraging HHS to "formalize an agreement with UNMC to develop and implement a long-term national training strategy and to play a major role in the continued treatment of patients."

By receiving this designation, UNMC will join Emory University and New York Bellevue Hospital as the nation's premier health institutions charged with creating policy and identifying best practices for treating Ebola and other infectious diseases. This designation will further catapult Nebraska into the forefront of research, education, and clinical care. These hospitals will also be responsible for educating over 100 identification and screening centers, 55 treatment centers, and eight regional centers.

Last fall, Ebola outbreaks in Liberia and western Africa resulted in several American relief workers contracting the deadly virus. UNMC received national praise for treating victims of this disease and pioneering emergency treatments. In June, UNMC was selected as one of nine health departments and associated partner hospitals to create a new network for responding to outbreaks of infectious diseases. Last October, Fischer sent a letter to the CDC, expressing her concern over their efforts to address Ebola in the United States and the lack of a clear strategy.

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