U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government, Department of Justice.

NCJRS Virtual Library

The Virtual Library houses over 235,000 criminal justice resources, including all known OJP works.
Click here to search the NCJRS Virtual Library

Emergency Medical Response to Terrorists Incidents and Hoaxes

NCJ Number
193183
Author(s)
James G. Fogarty
Date Published
2001
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses operational changes to consider when implementing plans for dealing with bioterrorist events.
Abstract
Although the paper is written from an operational perspective, key decisions and support are needed at a more strategic and at administrative levels to facilitate integration of plans into day-to-day operations. The paper states that each healthcare agency needs broadband high-speed access channels, and there should be a standard data set and interchange within the healthcare system. Emergency response actions require instant and multifaceted communications networks that are reliable and flexible. Other equipment and procedures of value to emergency response include: (1) redundant phone systems, both analog and digital; (2) broadcast fax capability; (3) network of contacts; (4) training; (5) knowledge of the basic tenets of disease surveillance; and (6) Special Care plans. The paper recommends a series of actions for hospitals, physicians, emergency medical services, and public health agencies.