New federal funding is available through the Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment and Network Development (STAND) Award, an initiative led by the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) with support from the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR). Up to 75 facilities will be awarded $500,000 each to strengthen preparedness, training, and capacity for high-consequence infectious disease (HCID) response. This opportunity continues the federal government’s investment in healthcare readiness, helping hospitals and regional partners enhance their capacity to identify, isolate, and manage patients with high-consequence infectious diseases (HCIDs)—pathogens that present severe risks to health systems and communities.
High-consequence pathogens include agents such as Ebola virus, Marburg virus, Lassa fever, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, pandemic influenza strains and emerging novel coronaviruses. These diseases are marked by high mortality, limited treatment options, and the potential for rapid transmission in clinical environments. The STAND program ensures that hospitals nationwide are equipped, trained, and coordinated to handle such threats safely and effectively.
Building Capacity and Coordination
The STAND framework integrates Level 2 treatment centers into the existing Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Center (RESPTC) network, creating a cohesive national system for response and readiness.
Hospitals selected for funding receive support for specialized training, simulation-based exercises, and operational improvements in infection prevention and control (IPC), biocontainment, and emergency coordination. The goal is to ensure consistent standards across the healthcare system and to strengthen regional collaboration during biological events.
Facilities that qualify for this opportunity are U.S.-based hospitals with the infrastructure and resources to support special pathogen care. Specifically, applicant institutions should have airborne infection isolation rooms, an onsite emergency department, critical care capabilities, and inpatient services sufficient to support sustained clinical operations. These requirements ensure that participating facilities are well-positioned to function as regional assets in the national special pathogen response network.
Further Information
Hospitals and health systems that meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply for the Level 2 STAND Award. Complete details, eligibility information, and application instructions are available through the NETEC STAND Award page.