Medical Response Capabilities to a Catastrophic Disaster: "House" or House of Cards?

Donahue Donald A., Godwin Evelyn A. and Cunnion Stephen O.
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Donahue Donald A.: University of Maryland University College, American Academy of Disaster Medicine, Diogenec Group
Godwin Evelyn A.: Diogenec Group
Cunnion Stephen O.: Diogenec Group

Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 2012, vol. 9, issue 2, 20

Abstract: Planning for a disaster is often influenced by the dual factors of perception of probabilities and current technology. Response design is built upon assumptions on the size, scope, and severity of the catastrophe. Yet, history documents myriad disasters that far surpassed even the direst predictions. Similarly, response mechanisms build upon what is in use at the time in terms of equipment, transportation, and employment. Current planning factors may prove inadequate to address a disaster of historical proportion. The authors offer a review of significant disasters as a measure of the potential scope of needed medical response and the inherent shortcomings therein. They call for a more comprehensive approach to medical response planning.

Keywords: disaster response; surge capacity; medical care (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2012
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DOI: 10.1515/1547-7355.2029

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