Community Hospital Disaster Preparedness in the United States.

What is it about?

Disasters are common events in the United States and hospitals play a critical role in caring for victims of disasters. There has been increased focus on hospital disaster preparedness in the United States because of events that have occurred in the 21st century. To determine the current state of disaster preparedness among community hospitals, a comprehensive review of the literature was conducted that focused on studies and other articles pertaining to disaster preparedness in U.S. community hospitals. The review showed mixed results a s to whether hospitals are better prepared to handle disasters. Barriers to preparedness were identified.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

This is the first comprehensive review of community hospital disaster preparedness. The findings identified opportunities for improvement. These may require additional study and involvement by federal and state governments, other agencies, and hospitals themselves to overcome barriers and assist hospitals in achieving a higher level of preparedness.

Perspectives