As spring approaches, hospitals in the Springfield, Mo., area are preparing for possible severe weather, according to an article on the Ozarks First website.

"We keep right on going even in bad weather because babies keep being born, heart attacks keep coming, gall bladder still need to come out," said Russ Conroy, Springfield Mercy Hospital's Director of Emergency Preparedness and Safety.

Preparation begins long before disaster strikes. The staff monitors weather briefings by county's Office of Emergency Management and the National Weather Service. They then go through their checklists, Which includes medical and emergency supplies. Backup generators are also tested once a month.

Conroy said although Mercy and Cox hospitals are competitors, in emergency situations, both work closely together to ensure resources are allocated as quickly and effectively as possible. 

Read the article.