How is your ED preparing for H1N1?

I went to our local ENA meeting last week, and one of the host facility's ED docs gave a presentation on how they intend to deal with any kind of massive flu outbreak and resulting influx of patients. One very interesting concept -- drive-through triage! (I mean, doesn't that sound good RIGHT NOW? LOL) The patients will drive up to a staffed checkpoint and be triaged in the car, without getting out -- they're looking at the vehicle as a good little isolation unit in itself. If the patient needs further treatment (IV fluids, meds, etc.), they'll be directed to another area. If they're more worried than sick (febrile with some symptoms, but basically okay, holding down fluids, etc.) they'll get a work note if needed and a scrip for Tamiflu if warranted, then sent on their way home. Pretty good idea, I think.

It was interesting for me to see their plans, because I'm also a paramedic in that city and that ED is where I transport patients as a paramedic.

And of course, we agreed that putting a vending machine outside the ED with Vicodin and work notes right now might be a helpful thing. LOL!