Strong as the weakest link: medical response to a catastrophic event

Strong as the weakest link: medical response to a catastrophic event

Collection:
Health Policy and Services Research
Series Title(s):
NHPF background paper
Contributor(s):
Salinsky, Eileen.
George Washington University. National Health Policy Forum.
Publication:
Washington, D.C. : George Washington University, [2008]
Language(s):
English
Format:
Text
Subject(s):
Delivery of Health Care -- organization & administration
Disaster Planning -- organization & administration
Disasters
Emergency Medical Services -- organization & administration
United States
Genre(s):
Technical Report
Abstract:
Natural disasters and acts of terrorism have placed a spotlight on the ability of health care providers to surge in response to catastrophic conditions. This paper reviews the status of efforts to develop the capacity and capabilities of the health care system to respond to disasters and other mass casualty events. Strategies for adapting routine medical practices and protocols to the demands posed by extraordinary circumstances and scarce resources are summarized. Existing federal roles, responsibilities, and assets relative to the contributions of state and local government and the private sector are described, including specific programmatic activities such as the Strategic National Stockpile, the National Disaster Medical System, and the Hospital Preparedness Program. Opportunities for federal policymakers seeking to strengthen and expedite preparations for medical disaster response are highlighted.
Copyright:
The National Library of Medicine believes this item to be in the public domain. (More information)
Extent:
30 leaves
Illustrations:
Illustrations
NLM Unique ID:
101490565 (See catalog record)
Permanent Link:
http://resource.nlm.nih.gov/101490565