The City of Laredo Public Health Department announced the successful completion of this year’s Border Health Preparedness Operation, formerly known as “Operation Lone Star.”
This year’s event demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening the community’s health and emergency preparedness. During the week-long event, OBHP achieved impressive results by providing essential health services to the community.
The total number of services provided during OBHP 2024 reached an astounding 3,571 and included services such as vision, dental, hearing, diabetes testing, HIV/STD and Hepatitis C testing, mental health, nutrition education and immunizations, reflecting the significant impact the event had on the health and well-being of the Laredo community.
OBHP 2024 also provided an opportunity to examine emergency response plans and ensure effectiveness and coordination across all aspects of preparedness, from communications to resource allocation.
The event promoted improved interagency coordination, clarification of roles and responsibilities, and streamlined communication channels among local, state, and federal agencies and non-governmental organizations. Operation Border Health Preparedness provided hands-on training to local residents, public health professionals, and emergency responders, allowing them to practice critical skills in a controlled, realistic environment.
“By demonstrating its commitment to preparedness through a visible training, OBHP increased the public’s trust and confidence in public health,” Laredo Public Health said in a statement. “Community members saw proactive plans for safety, and many had the opportunity to be seen and receive medical services at no cost to them.”
“The City of Laredo Public Health would like to thank all of our partners, volunteers, participants and Laredo Public Health staff who made OBHP 2024 a huge success. Your dedication and support were invaluable in increasing our community’s preparedness and resilience.”
“As we come to the end of another year of this important work, we remain committed to creating a healthier and safer Laredo. We look forward to continuing this tradition and further strengthening our community’s healthcare infrastructure.”
