What is the difference between an order of succession and delegation of authority?
An order of succession is a list of individuals who would sequentially assume responsibility if the principal staff person is no longer able to carry out his/her functions. Delegation of authority refers to positions in which the principal staff person has the authority to complete a particular task. When writing your COOP, it is possible that the same individuals will be listed for both functions. For example, The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) Chief Medical Officer is both an administrator and a physician. Senior administrative staff could be listed in the order of succession for management purposes. However, if a particular task was medical/clinical, then the task would be delegated to a clinician rather than a manager.
