Disaster Operational Planning
Disasters that result in a large number of victims can occur at any time, and at any place. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is tasked with responding to and mitigating the effects of these disasters. However, successful management begins with the local response. Planning and preparing for medical disaster operations is essential for effective response and mitigation.
There are a myriad of guidelines and plans, seemingly complex and difficult to achieve. CMEDDS provides clarity and practical approaches to medical disaster planning. Topics of training may include:
- Organizational behavior and group dynamics
- Organizational structure and staff responsibilities
- Hazards analysis and risk assessment
- Public health and other agency interaction
- Communications to agencies and the public
- Rapid needs assessment and critical decision-making
- Support services and resources
- Security operations
- Legal issues and mandates
CMEDDS consultants work closely with the client to ensure that a plan of operation developed for the organization is achievable and conforms to generally accepted practices and principles. Whenever possible, a “best-practices” approach is used to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of services during a major catastrophe.