Point of Dispensing (POD)

In the event of a public health emergency, a large portion of the Anoka County population may need to receive medication, vaccines, or medical supplies. Point of Dispensing (POD) sites play a very important role in a public health emergency that requires getting medical supplies to the entire population quickly. 

Open Point of Dispensing

An Open Point of Dispensing (POD) site is open to the public and operated by local public health agencies. An Open POD will be the main mechanism for dispensing medications to most of the population. 

Closed Point of Dispensing

A Closed Point of Dispensing (POD) site is not open to the public. A Closed POD is a location that is operated by a private organization for a target group which may include employees and their families and/or clients/members they serve. Closed POD sites can be businesses, nonprofits (community based, faith based etc.), governmental, correctional, educational (universities, colleges, high schools, etc.), health care (hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, long-term care, assisted living), and religious organizations.

Becoming a Closed POD displays a commitment to employees’ health and safety. Closed PODs can ensure that vulnerable clients that are served within an organization receive access to the needed supplies in an emergency.

For more information about becoming a Closed POD or Open POD partner, please email Public.Health@co.anoka.mn.us or call 763-324-4270.