Coordination of Disaster Preparedness

On average, a disaster occurs somewhere in the world every day (Shi & Johnson, 2014). In 2010 alone, more than 296,800 people worldwide died from natural disasters, with attendant economic damages of more than $100 billion. Other types of disasters and hazards include bioterrorism, disease outbreaks, mass casualties from explosions, radiation and chemical emergencies, and more. Although public health organizations cannot be expected to handle all of the responsibilities associated with prevention, mitigation, warning, preparedness, and response, there is no question that disasters have implications for public health for years and sometimes decades. Those in public health administration may find the responsibilities associated with preparing for and responding to disasters overwhelming. To be effective, carrying out these responsibilities effectively requires a multi-organizational response. What are the public health administrative skills needed to lead, coordinate, and collaborate with multiorganizational partners when disaster strikes?

For this week’s Discussion, review the media, especially the media titled Disaster Preparedness and Response. Then select a recent disaster (occurring 3 years ago or less) event or disease outbreak. Research articles from credible sources.

Consider the involvement of coordination of local, regional, national, and international entities. What roles do leaders play? Who is in charge? What policies are in place? What important laws, rules, and regulations are in place to safeguard? Who are the key organizations to bring to the table?

Assuming the role of a public health administrator responsible for disaster preparedness and response, briefly describe the disaster you chose.

Then, review the following questions and select two to answer.

1. Who was in command of that incident? Explain whether or not you think the right organization and individual/s were in command. Provide a rationale for your answer.
2. How might federal, state, and local resources be coordinated? (International students can refer to provincial, territorial, etc.)
3. How might state and local agencies and officials work together to plan and respond to this disaster?
4. What laws, rules, and regulations are important in this situation and why? What other significant issues might they need to deal with and why?
5. Who is liable if something happens to a person who is helping with the relief effort? Explain how the person would be liable.
6. How might the national incident management system (NIMS) come into play in this situation?

Post by Day 3 a brief description of the disaster you chose. Then, explainyour answers to the two questions you selected. (Refer to them by number in your posting.) Then, assuming the role of a leader in this situation, suggest tasks involved in planning in order to be prepared for future disasters and explain why you are suggesting them. Relate your tasks to the two questions you selected. Be specific and provide examples.