Introduction to public health preparedness for disaster and emergency response
Abstract
The unprecedented attacks of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent anthrax-related events thrust our nation's often forgotten public health system into the forefront of public attention. A strong public health system with a well-prepared workforce plays a critical role in preparing for and responding to the threat of bioterrorism and other disasters and emergencies. Technical expertise is critical as is a basic awareness and understanding of core public health competencies especially as they relate to disaster and emergency response is also imperative for a public health agency to function as a vital Emergency Response team member. Ideally this training should begin at the Public Health graduate level so as to provide the baseline core tools to be able to function as a vital team member when they are practicing out in the real world. Online learning is an efficient and effective method for providing public health education to in a flexible format to meet the needs of busy student-professions. This Public Health Disaster Preparedness online course developed during an Emergency Response state program practicum is a practical and proficient approach to accomplish this endeavor.
Subject Area
Public health
Recommended Citation
Winkler, Anita J, "Introduction to public health preparedness for disaster and emergency response" (2008). Texas Medical Center Dissertations (via ProQuest). AAI1454559.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/dissertations/AAI1454559