COVID-19 disaster preparedness

MacDonald, Alexis U.; Harahus, John M.; Hall, Erin; Reed, Mary Jane; Baldisseri, Marie R.

Proper preparation, resource allocation, and education contribute to disaster response. The capacity and capability of a community and health system to respond to emergencies determine preparedness. Essential aspects of preparedness, including assessing resources (stuff/space), training for providers (staff), and increased communication/collaboration across networks/programs are required. Adequate response requires an understanding of emergency networks and the current state’s analysis. The initial assessment includes the identification of all stakeholders. In addition to capacity, the capability of the existing health-care network to respond with increased staffing and stuff (resources) should be addressed. The dynamic nature of an infectious disaster highlights the need for flexibility and fluidity in the organization. This coordinated effort must be collaborative, and evidence-based protocols are necessary to ensure basic practice standards. Innovation improves health-care delivery and resource utilization. Other disasters, both natural and human-made, occur during a global pandemic. Contact tracing and early mitigation are essential for coronavirus disease 2019-positive patients.