National Public Health Radio Network (NPHRN)

The National Public Health Radio Network (NPHRN) is a collaborative initiative between CDC’s Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response (OPHPR) and the Division of Emergency Operations (DEO) to provide CDC, state, territorial, and local health departments with a wireless redundant communications capacity. The NPHRN utilizes specific Federal frequencies within the High Frequency (HF) spectrum to transmit and receive vital information in the event that traditional infrastructure dependent communication media (telephone, internet, and cellular) are damaged, overloaded, or destroyed thus preventing effective and reliable communication.

(Update as of November 10, 2014) Because of reductions in funding appropriated by Congress to CDC for preparedness and response activities, CDC can no longer provide the same level of service previously afforded to NPHRN. However, CDC is still committed to assisting states in maintaining their nodes in the network. Through the DEO, Emergency Operations Center staff is available to

• conduct equipment testing (Voice [during business hours] and Automatic Link Establishment [ALE] [24/7]) at the state’s request,
• refer states to qualified contractors for maintenance/repair, training, and site analysis at the state’s cost, and
• provide contact information for other high-frequency radio network managers (e.g., DHS-OEC SHARES [Shared Resources] and DHS National Level Exercises) to enable states to participate in local, regional, and/or national exercises.

CDC recognizes the importance of maintaining communication systems equipment during public health emergencies and remains committed to addressing this issue to protect the health of the nation. For assistance in these areas, please contact:

Michael L. Sapp
Manager, National Public Health Radio Network (NPHRN)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response  (OPHPR)
Division of Emergency Operations (DEO)
1600 Clifton Road NE
MS D-75
Atlanta, GA 30333
404-553-7790 Office
MSapp@cdc.gov