Special Considerations for Emergency Preparedness

Emergency preparedness is a shared responsibility emerging from interactions between the individual, the individual’s network of support, and the local and national governmental systems. Emergency preparedness refers to precautions taken prior to an emergency to reduce its impact and improve outcomes. Preparing for emergencies is integral to health and has greater influence in persons with chronic illnesses and/or special health care needs. Patients with chronic health conditions, special health care needs, and disabilities are disproportionately affected by poverty, lack of social support, and violence and have lower rates of emergency preparedness. Increased efforts to support emergency preparedness and pandemic preparedness planning are needed. Physicians play an essential role in guidance, are a trusted source of information, and are essential to an accurate plan in responding to emergencies.