By Pat Trevino | June 10, 2026
CUERO, TX -Cuero Regional Hospital took part in the annual GCRAC Medical Response and Surge Exercise (MRSE) on Wednesday, joining healthcare and emergency partners from across the region in a large‑scale disaster preparedness drill.
This year’s scenario simulated a major highway mass‑casualty incident involving more than 40 vehicles and approximately 80 patients. The exercise also incorporated a hazardous‑materials exposure, requiring specialized decontamination procedures and coordinated response efforts.
Throughout the drill, Cuero Regional Hospital staff worked alongside regional agencies to practice key emergency operations, including:
- Incident Command setup and coordination
- Hospital surge activation protocols
- Patient triage and rapid assessment
- Hazardous‑materials decontamination processes
- Communication and resource support through GCRAC
Volunteers act as patients during a simulation lab, giving trainees the opportunity to practice real‑world medical skills in a controlled environment.
Hospital officials emphasized that while such large‑scale incidents are rare, regular training is essential to maintaining readiness.
“Exercises like this ensure that our teams are prepared to respond quickly, effectively, and safely when real emergencies occur,” the hospital noted in a statement. “Our staff and regional partners dedicate significant time to preparedness efforts so we can continue providing the highest level of patient care when it matters most.”
The MRSE is part of an ongoing regional initiative to strengthen emergency response capabilities across South Texas, ensuring hospitals and first responders can work seamlessly during disasters.