FEMA/DHS seal
January 12, 2009 
NA: 02-09 
National Integration Center 
Incident Management System 
Integration Division 

NIMS Alert 

202-646-3850 

The National Preparedness Directorate Release of 
Public Health and Medical Resource Typing Definitions and Job Titles 


The National Incident Management System (NIMS) efforts to strengthen the Nation’s catastrophic response 
capabilities were further enhanced by a recent undertaking of the FEMA’s National Preparedness Directorate, 
National Integration Center, Incident Management Systems Integration Division. A Public Health and Medical 
Working Group comprised of Subject Matter Experts convened to develop Resource Typing Definitions and Job 
Titles. This first set of Definitions and Job Titles will be expanded as the working group continues to consider 
resource needs. 

Resource typing definitions identify components and metrics that define minimum capabilities and type 
classifications for various resources. Focus of the Working Group was on identifying capability, composition, 
personnel, and equipment needed to support an interstate mutual aid-based response. 

NIMS Guide 0002, dated March 27, 2007, which documents minimum requirements and recommended standards 
was used in the development of job titles for specific emergency response functional positions. Minimum 
professional qualifications, certifications, training and education were outlined. The National credentialing process 
is voluntary, and reflects volunteer participation of a first responder(s) willingness to deploy under interstate mutual 
aid-based agreements or compacts. States are required to establish a program administered by the State Director or 
other Official designated by the Governor; to grant authority to agencies, organizations or other entities to issue 
qualification verification for individuals deploying in support of interstate mutual aid. 

Two 30-day feedback periods were conducted involving various stakeholders from National and State associations, 
related organizations and individuals with a professional interest in initiatives supporting resource typing and 
credentialing. The Public Health and Medical Working Group was diligent in incorporating the valuable input 
received. 

The Public Health and Medical Team resource typing definitions and job titles have been finalized, and 
incorporated into Tier 1 NIMS Resource Typing. 

Public Health and Medical Resource Typing Definitions are located at: 

http://www.fema.gov/emergency/nims/ResourceMngmnt.shtm#item4. 

Public Health and Medical Job Titles are located at: 
http://www.fema.gov/emergency/nims/ResourceMngmnt.shtm#item3. 

Questions and comments can be directed to the Incident Management System Integration Division at: FEMANIMS@
dhs.gov or (800) 621-FEMA. 

Page 1 of 1 www.fema.gov/emergency/nims 
FEMA-NIMS@dhs.gov