 Emergency preparedness programs have evolved significantly over the past few decades, due to the increasing frequency of natural, intentional, and accidental disasters. These programs are now centered around four key phases, mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of healthcare emergency preparedness programs, but also revealed vulnerabilities in these programs. Healthcare professionals need to take steps to ensure their organizations are better equipped to handle future emergencies. This includes assessing, planning, training, exercising, and revising their emergency preparedness plans. Healthcare epidemiologists and infection preventionists should play a critical role in this process by incorporating lessons learned from the pandemic and building stronger preparedness plans. This article was authored by Jocelyn J. Hastine, Michelle M. Schwedhelm, Angela Vazer, and others.