Cooper University Health Care has been selected as a recipient of the Special Pathogen Treatment, Assessment, and Network Development (STAND) Award, a $500,000 grant from the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC).
The funding will further enhance Cooper’s capabilities as a Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment Center (SPTC), strengthening its role within the National Special Pathogen System (NSPS).
The NSPS is nationally coordinated to ensure safe, high-quality care for patients during outbreaks of high-consequence infectious diseases. As a Level 2 SPTC, Cooper University Health Care plays a critical role in regional and national readiness efforts, providing advanced assessment, treatment, and coordination during public health emergencies.
“This recognition reflects Cooper’s long-standing commitment to preparedness and protecting patients, caregivers, and the community,” said Simon Sarkisian, medical director of disaster medicine at Cooper University Health Care. “The STAND Award strengthens our ability to integrate evidence-based practices, train our teams, and maintain the systems needed to safely care for patients during high-consequence infectious disease events.”
Cooper was selected through a national review process, making it one of only 54 hospitals nationwide chosen to receive the designation, which recognizes hospitals and health systems that demonstrate exceptional leadership and readiness in special pathogen preparedness.
The STAND Award will support continued advancement of Cooper’s emergency preparedness infrastructure, including specialized staff training, equipment enhancements, and the development of systems and protocols to care for patients with infectious diseases.
Throughout the award period, NETEC, in collaboration with the Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Centers (RESPTCs), will provide ongoing technical assistance, training, and verification support to ensure Cooper continues to meet and exceed Level 2 SPTC standards.
