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Crapis C, Chang KYJ, Villeneuve M. A cross-sectional survey of Australian service providers' emergency preparedness capabilities. Disabil Rehabil 2024; 46:4276-4286. [PMID: 37855373 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2270916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Emergency and disaster management planning is an emerging role with limited practical guidance on how it should be implemented by community, disability, health and rehabilitation service providers. This study examined the emergency preparedness of service providers and how they viewed their role and contributions to disaster risk reduction, including their capacity and willingness to facilitate preparedness planning with their clients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A questionnaire was developed and administered nationally. Descriptive statistics, multivariate regression analyses, and thematic analysis of open-ended questions provide insight on the knowledge, tools and training needs of service providers to contribute to preparedness of themselves and the people they support. RESULTS Facilitating emergency preparedness with people with disability was strongly associated with a high level of mental preparedness, household preparedness scores, and completion of Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness (P-CEP) training. Perceived lack of funding, insufficient tools, and exclusion of emergency planning from job descriptions were negatively associated with facilitating emergency preparedness with clients. CONCLUSIONS Study findings lay the groundwork for development of the role and capabilities of individual service providers including the need to equip disability, health and rehabilitation service providers with training and tools to prepare themselves and the people they support for emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Crapis
- D18 Susan Wakil Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kuo-Yi Jade Chang
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle Villeneuve
- D18 Susan Wakil Sydney School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Baker Rogers JE. Hospices and Emergency Preparedness Planning: A Scoping Review of the Literature. J Palliat Care 2024; 39:161-172. [PMID: 37198908 DOI: 10.1177/08258597231176410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective. Palliative and end-of-life care, as provided by hospices, are important elements of a healthcare response to disasters. A scoping review of the literature was conducted to examine and synthesize what is currently known about emergency preparedness planning by hospices. Methods. A literature search of academic and trade publications was conducted through 6 publication databases, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines when applicable. Publications were selected and findings were organized into themes. Results. A total of 26 articles were included in the literature review. Six themes of Policies and Procedures; Testing/Training/Education; Integration and Coordination; Mitigation; Risk Assessment/Hazard and Vulnerability Analysis; and Regulations were identified. Conclusions. This review demonstrates that hospices have begun to individualize emergency preparedness features that support their unique role. The review supports all-hazards planning for hospices, and emerging from this review is a developing vision for expanded roles of hospices to help communities in times of disaster. Continued research in this specialized area is needed to improve hospices' emergency preparedness efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna E Baker Rogers
- West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
- Palliative Care Graduate Program, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Amberson T, Heagele T, Wyte-Lake T, Couig MP, Bell SA, Mammen MJ, Wells V, Castner J. Social support, educational, and behavioral modification interventions for improving household disaster preparedness in the general community-dwelling population: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1257714. [PMID: 38596429 PMCID: PMC11003604 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1257714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The efficacy of household emergency preparedness interventions for community-dwelling, non-institutionalized people is largely unknown. Objective To ascertain the state of the science on social support, educational, and behavioral modification interventions to improve all-hazard household disaster preparedness. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods Databases, trial registers, reports, and websites were searched, and citation trails followed utilizing replicable methods. Individual, cluster, and cross-over randomized controlled trials of non-institutionalized, community-dwelling populations and non-randomized controlled trials, controlled before-after, and program evaluation studies were included. At least two review authors independently screened each potentially relevant study for inclusion, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane's RoB2 tool for randomized studies and ROBINS-I tool for nonrandomized studies. Meta-analyses were applied using a random-effects model. Where meta-analysis was not indicated, results were synthesized using summary statistics of intervention effect estimates and vote counting based on effect direction. The evidence was rated using GRADE. Results 17 studies were included with substantial methodological and clinical diversity. No intervention effect was observed for preparedness supplies (OR = 6.12, 95% 0.13 to 284.37) or knowledge (SMD = 0.96, 95% CI -0.15 to 2.08) outcomes. A small positive effect (SMD = 0.53, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.91) was observed for preparedness behaviors, with very low certainty of evidence. No studies reported adverse effects from the interventions. Conclusion Research designs elucidating the efficacy of practical yet complex and multi- faceted social support, educational, and behavioral modification interventions present substantial methodological challenges where rigorous study design elements may not match the contextual public health priority needs and resources where interventions were delivered. While the overall strength of the evidence was evaluated as low to very low, we acknowledge the valuable and informative work of the included studies. The research represents the seminal work in this field and provides an important foundation for the state of the science of household emergency preparedness intervention effectiveness and efficacy. The findings are relevant to disaster preparedness practice and research, and we encourage researchers to continue this line of research, using these studies and this review to inform ongoing improvements in study designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taryn Amberson
- Health Systems and Population Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Tara Heagele
- Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, Hunter College, The City University of New York, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Tamar Wyte-Lake
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Mary Pat Couig
- College of Nursing, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Sue Anne Bell
- University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Valerie Wells
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Castner
- Castner Incorporated, Grand Island, NY, United States
- University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, United States
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Lessinnes S, Köhler M, Ewers M. Evidence of Disaster Planning by Home Care Providers: An Integrative Literature Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:5658. [PMID: 37174176 PMCID: PMC10177767 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The increasing risk of disasters worldwide poses challenges both to health care infrastructures and to home care providers, who must maintain decentralised services for those in need of long-term care for as long as possible, even under adverse circumstances. However, both the kind of organisational precautions that home care providers consider in preparation for disasters and the available evidence on the effectiveness of these precautions remain largely unclear. An integrative literature review was thus performed via a systematic search of several international databases in order to identify original research on organisational disaster planning by home care providers and to determine the evidence base of this research. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Of the 286 results, 12 articles met the inclusion criteria and presented results from nine studies on disaster planning. Three overarching types of activities carried out by home care providers were identified inductively. The overall scientific quality of the studies was moderate, and none investigated the effectiveness of disaster planning by home care providers. Despite the variety of possible activities that home care providers already consider, evidence on how to make organisational disaster planning effective and sustainable remains lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Lessinnes
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, Institute of Health and Nursing Science, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany
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Franzosa E, Wyte-Lake T, Tsui EK, Reckrey JM, Sterling MR. Essential but Excluded: Building Disaster Preparedness Capacity for Home Health Care Workers and Home Care Agencies. J Am Med Dir Assoc 2022; 23:1990-1996. [PMID: 36343702 PMCID: PMC9634621 DOI: 10.1016/j.jamda.2022.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 has demonstrated the essential role of home care services in supporting community-dwelling older and disabled individuals through a public health emergency. As the pandemic overwhelmed hospitals and nursing homes, home care helped individuals remain in the community and recover from COVID-19 at home. Yet unlike many institutional providers, home care agencies were often disconnected from broader public health disaster planning efforts and struggled to access basic resources, jeopardizing the workers who provide this care and the medically complex and often marginalized patients they support. The exclusion of home care from the broader COVID-19 emergency response underscores how the home care industry operates apart from the traditional health care infrastructure, even as its workers provide essential long-term care services. This special article (1) describes the experiences of home health care workers and their agencies during COVID-19 by summarizing existing empiric research; (2) reflects on how these experiences were shaped and exacerbated by longstanding challenges in the home care industry; and (3) identifies implications for future disaster preparedness policies and practice to better serve this workforce, the home care industry, and those for whom they care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Franzosa
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA,Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA,Address correspondence to Emily Franzosa DrPH, Geriatrics Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY
| | - Tamar Wyte-Lake
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
| | - Emma K. Tsui
- Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, City University of New York, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Reckrey
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA,Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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6
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Baker Rogers JE, Thompson JM, Mupamombe CT, Vanin JM, Navia RO. Hospice Emergency Planning and COVID-19. J Palliat Care 2021; 37:34-40. [PMID: 34410180 DOI: 10.1177/08258597211037428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services requirements for Emergency Preparedness Planning (EPP) by hospice organizations significantly increased in 2017. This study seeks to assess the involvement of various hospice personnel in EPP before and since the onset of the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A link to an anonymous online survey was sent to members of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association, targeting members involved in hospice care in the United States. A descriptive analysis of the data was performed. Results: Prior to the pandemic, 39.8% of respondents were "moderately" or "very" involved with the development and revisions of the Emergency Preparedness Plan. Since the beginning of the pandemic, this increased to 59%, which largely occurred among physicians. Clinical Nurse and Nurse Practitioner involvement in development/revisions remained low. Approximately 30% of respondents desired more involvement across the areas of EPP. Conclusion: The involvement of personnel of various disciplines is varied and the involvement of physicians appears to have increased with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. A notable portion of personnel desired more involvement across all aspects of EPP. More research is needed in this important but little-understood area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna E Baker Rogers
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jesse M Thompson
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Charles T Mupamombe
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jennifer M Vanin
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, West Virginia University Medicine, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - R Osvaldo Navia
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Rest KD, Hirsch P. Insights and decision support for home health care services in times of disasters. CENTRAL EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH 2021; 30:133-157. [PMID: 34366709 PMCID: PMC8326643 DOI: 10.1007/s10100-021-00770-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Home health care (HHC) services are of vital importance for the health care system of many countries. Further increases in their demand must be expected and with it grows the need to sustain these services in times of disasters. Existing risk assessment tools and guides support HHC service providers to secure their services. However, they do not provide insights on interdependencies of complex systems like HHC. Causal-Loop-Diagrams (CLDs) are generated to visualize the impacts of epidemics, blackouts, heatwaves, and floods on the HHC system. CLDs help to understand the system design as well as cascading effects. Additionally, they simplify the process of identifying points of action in order to mitigate the impacts of disasters. In a case study, the course of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on HHC in Austria in spring 2020 are shown. A decision support system (DSS) to support the daily scheduling of HHC nurses is presented and applied to numerically analyze the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, using real-world data from a HHC service provider in Vienna. The DSS is based on a Tabu Search metaheuristic that specifically aims to deal with the peculiarities of urban regions. Various transport modes are considered, including time-dependent public transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus-Dieter Rest
- Institute of Production and Logistics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Feistmantelstrasse 4, 1180 Vienna, Austria
| | - Patrick Hirsch
- Institute of Production and Logistics, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Feistmantelstrasse 4, 1180 Vienna, Austria
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Amberson T, Heagele T, Castner J, Wyte-Lake T, Couig MP, Bell SA, Mammen MJ, Wells V. Social support, educational, and behavioral modification interventions for improving household disaster preparedness in the general community-dwelling population. Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tara Heagele
- Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing, Hunter College; The City University of New York; New York New York USA
| | - Jessica Castner
- Castner Incorporated; Grand Island New York USA
- Journal of Emergency Nursing; Grand Island New York USA
| | - Tamar Wyte-Lake
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center; Los Angeles California USA
- Department of Family Medicine; Oregon Health & Science University; Portland Oregon USA
| | - Mary Pat Couig
- College of Nursing; University of New Mexico; Albuquerque New Mexico USA
| | | | - Manoj J Mammen
- State University of New York at Buffalo; Buffalo New York USA
| | - Valerie Wells
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit; University of Glasgow; Glasgow UK
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9
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Rogers JEB, Constantine LA, Thompson JM, Mupamombe CT, Vanin JM, Navia RO. COVID-19 Pandemic Impacts on U.S. Hospice Agencies: A National Survey of Hospice Nurses and Physicians. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2021; 38:521-527. [PMID: 33499673 DOI: 10.1177/1049909121989987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hospice agencies face unique challenges during times of widespread public health emergencies. The pandemic of novel coronavirus disease COVID-19 is widely affecting global healthcare systems. Aim: This study assesses effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on U.S. hospice agencies, staff, and patients as reported by hospice agency staff. Design: An anonymous electronic survey was developed. Free-text comments were assessed for impacts on hospice agencies, staff, and patients and their families. Setting/Participants: The target audience was members of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine and the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association who self-identified as being active with hospice agencies in the United States. Results: Reported impacts include inadequate supplies of personal protective equipment, changes in hospice services, and decreased access by hospice personnel to patients in long term care facilities. Flow of patients through hospice care settings was impeded. Agencies experienced changes in workforce availability and increased emotional support needs of staff. Patient and families experienced increased bereavement needs. Nearly one-third of respondents reported negative effects on patient outcomes, such as inadequate symptom management and negative psychosocial effects. Conclusion: Respondents indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic had negative effects on both hospice patient care and hospice agency functioning. Hospice agencies appear to face challenges unique among U.S. healthcare agencies due to their service delivery model and focus on interdisciplinary care. There is need for further exploration of the effects that the COVID-19 pandemic has on hospice agencies in order to improve care for their patient population during public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janna E. Baker Rogers
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Lori A. Constantine
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jesse M. Thompson
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, WV, USA
| | - Charles T. Mupamombe
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Jennifer M. Vanin
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, West Virginia University Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia, WV, USA
| | - R. Osvaldo Navia
- Section of Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Wyte-Lake T, Der-Martirosian C, Chu K, Johnson-Koenke R, Dobalian A. Preparedness and response activities of the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) home-based primary care program around the fall 2017 hurricane season. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1796. [PMID: 33243229 PMCID: PMC7690102 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09888-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Large-scale natural disasters disproportionally affect both the medically complex and the older old, groups that are responsible for most medical surge after a disaster. To understand how to ameliorate this surge, we examined the activities of the nine US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) programs impacted during the 2017 Fall Hurricane Season. METHODS Convergent mixed methods design, incorporating independently conducted qualitative and quantitative analyses. Phase One: 34 clinical staff were interviewed from the nine VA HBPC programs impacted by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria to examine the experiences of their HBPC programs in response to the Hurricanes. Phase Two: Secondary quantitative data analysis used the VA's Corporate Data Warehouse (CDW) to examine the electronic health records of patients for these same nine sites. RESULTS The emergency management activities of the HBPC programs emerged as two distinct phases: preparedness, and response and recovery. The early implementation of preparedness procedures, and coordinated post-Hurricane patient tracking, limited disruption in care and prevented significant hospitalizations among this population. CONCLUSIONS Individuals aged 75 or older, who often present with multiple comorbidities and decreased functional status, typically prefer to age in their homes. Additionally, as in-home medical equipment evolves, more medically vulnerable individuals are able to receive care at home. HBPC programs, and similar programs under Medicare, connect the homebound, medically complex, older old to the greater healthcare community. Engaging with these programs both pre- and post-disasters is central to bolstering community resilience for these at-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Wyte-Lake
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA.
- Department of Family Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Claudia Der-Martirosian
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA
| | - Karen Chu
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA
| | - Rachel Johnson-Koenke
- Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation, Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 1700 North Wheeling Street, Aurora, CO, 80045-7211, USA
| | - Aram Dobalian
- Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 16111 Plummer St. MS-152, North Hills, CA, 91343, USA
- Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, University of Memphis School of Public Health, 3720 Alumni Ave, Memphis, TN, 38152, USA
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Wyte-Lake T, Claver M, Johnson-Koenke R, Dobalian A. Home-Based Primary Care's Role in Supporting the Older Old During Wildfires. J Prim Care Community Health 2020; 10:2150132719846773. [PMID: 31088255 PMCID: PMC6537241 DOI: 10.1177/2150132719846773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is limited understanding of how Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) programs support their medically complex patients in event of a disaster. This study aimed to identify emergency preparedness protocols and procedures undertaken in advance of and due to the 2017 Northern California wildfires by staff of the Veterans Health Administration (VA) HBPC programs. METHODS This study examines the experiences and responses of two VA HBPC programs to the 2017 Northern California wildfires. Six phone interviews were conducted from July to August 2018. The interview protocol addressed agency preparedness policies and procedures, continuity of care after the wildfires, as well as facilitators and barriers to disaster response. RESULTS The total patient census of participating HBPC programs was 300. Neither HBPC program reported a loss of life due to the wildfires. Early patient preparedness, effective leadership support, and strength of program operating procedures emerged as key factors to effective response. CONCLUSIONS Demand for home health care, like VA's HBPC program, is projected to grow as the number of older adults and longevity increases. Emergency management efforts must likewise evolve to address the unique needs of these vulnerable patients in disasters. Understanding the program activities conducted by the VA HBPC programs in response to the 2017 Northern California wildfires can help improve the understanding of how VA and non-VA home-based care programs can be best integrated into resilience planning of local communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Wyte-Lake
- 1 Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), US Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
| | - Maria Claver
- 1 Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), US Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
| | - Rachel Johnson-Koenke
- 3 Denver-Seattle Center of Innovation (COIN), US Department of Veterans Affairs, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Aram Dobalian
- 1 Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center (VEMEC), US Department of Veterans Affairs, North Hills, CA, USA
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12
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Katzburg JR, Bradley SE, Lind JD, Fickel J, Ripley DC, Ong MK, Bergman AA, Fleming M, Lee LB, Tubbesing SA. Using Geographic Information System Mapping in Emergency Management. Nurs Clin North Am 2020; 55:81-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cnur.2019.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Subramaniam P, Villeneuve M. Advancing emergency preparedness for people with disabilities and chronic health conditions in the community: a scoping review. Disabil Rehabil 2019; 42:3256-3264. [PMID: 30907152 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2019.1583781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Background: Community-based service providers are optimally positioned to contribute to the inclusion of people with disability and chronic health conditions in community-level disaster risk reduction. However, little is known about how to enable emergency preparedness within existing community health care, disability, and rehabilitation service delivery.Purpose: This study synthesised findings from a scoping review of the literature on how community-based service providers can enable emergency preparedness for clients in the community. Emphasis was placed on the practice scope of service providers undertaking this emerging role, the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to enable preparedness in others, and the current tools and training available to support service providers.Method: Six electronic databases, hand and cited searches were undertaken to identify studies for inclusion. In total, 24 publications were included.Results: Providers have competencies in conducting functional assessments that make them well-suited to enabling emergency preparedness with clients. Findings revealed seven provider responsibilities associated with this role and eight tools and training resources to support providers.Conclusion: Whilst community-based service providers are willing and optimally placed to enact these roles, they require additional support to do so in a manner that espouses values of inclusion and enablement.Implications for RehabilitationA wide range of community-based service providers are willing to leverage their role to enable emergency preparedness with clients in the community.Research is needed to understand how to optimise the expertise of diverse health care, disability and rehabilitation providers in facilitating emergency preparedness with clients.Strengths-based tools are needed to increase client self-sufficiency in preparing for and responding to emergencies.Enablement processes should guide the development of emergency preparedness as a critically important and emerging role for community-based service providers.Disability and rehabilitation professionals can use this scoping review to self-assess their capacity and develop opportunities to embed emergency preparedness into routine practice with clients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Villeneuve
- Centre for Disability Research and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Wyte-Lake T, Claver M, Der-Martirosian C, Davis D, Dobalian A. Education of Elderly Patients About Emergency Preparedness by Health Care Practitioners. Am J Public Health 2018; 108:S207-S208. [PMID: 30192665 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2018.304608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tamar Wyte-Lake
- Tamar Wyte-Lake, Claudia Der-Martirosian, Maria Claver, and Aram Dobalian are with the Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Office of Patient Care Services, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA. Maria Claver is also with the Gerontology Program, California State University, Long Beach. Darlene Davis is with Geriatrics and Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC. Aram Dobalian is also with the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
| | - Maria Claver
- Tamar Wyte-Lake, Claudia Der-Martirosian, Maria Claver, and Aram Dobalian are with the Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Office of Patient Care Services, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA. Maria Claver is also with the Gerontology Program, California State University, Long Beach. Darlene Davis is with Geriatrics and Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC. Aram Dobalian is also with the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
| | - Claudia Der-Martirosian
- Tamar Wyte-Lake, Claudia Der-Martirosian, Maria Claver, and Aram Dobalian are with the Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Office of Patient Care Services, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA. Maria Claver is also with the Gerontology Program, California State University, Long Beach. Darlene Davis is with Geriatrics and Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC. Aram Dobalian is also with the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
| | - Darlene Davis
- Tamar Wyte-Lake, Claudia Der-Martirosian, Maria Claver, and Aram Dobalian are with the Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Office of Patient Care Services, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA. Maria Claver is also with the Gerontology Program, California State University, Long Beach. Darlene Davis is with Geriatrics and Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC. Aram Dobalian is also with the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
| | - Aram Dobalian
- Tamar Wyte-Lake, Claudia Der-Martirosian, Maria Claver, and Aram Dobalian are with the Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Office of Patient Care Services, US Department of Veterans Affairs, Los Angeles, CA. Maria Claver is also with the Gerontology Program, California State University, Long Beach. Darlene Davis is with Geriatrics and Extended Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC. Aram Dobalian is also with the Division of Health Systems Management and Policy, School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
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Khorram-Manesh A, Yttermyr J, Sörensson J, Carlström E. The Impact of Disasters and Major Incidents on Vulnerable Groups: Risk and Medical Assessment of Swedish Patients With Advanced Care at Home. HOME HEALTH CARE MANAGEMENT AND PRACTICE 2017. [DOI: 10.1177/1084822317699156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we assessed the overall risks that influence advanced care at home (ACH) patients enrolled in 8 municipalities in the western region of Sweden. We also conducted a medical assessment of a limited number of ACH cases based on the registered information from the university hospital in Gothenburg, with regard to survival after a disaster. Two different questionnaires were distributed, and the results were collected separately and analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis. The results indicate that there is a low level of preparedness among the health care service providers for addressing the needs of ACH patients following a major incident or disaster. For this group, the impact of a disaster depends on their vulnerability, specific diagnosis, the medical support required, and the duration of the incident or disaster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Khorram-Manesh
- ESB (Prehospital and Disaster Medicine Center), Gothenburg, Sweden
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Dept. of Surgery, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jakob Yttermyr
- ESB (Prehospital and Disaster Medicine Center), Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Josef Sörensson
- ESB (Prehospital and Disaster Medicine Center), Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eric Carlström
- ESB (Prehospital and Disaster Medicine Center), Gothenburg, Sweden
- Dept. of Health and Crisis Management and Policy, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Health agencies working with the homebound play a vital role in bolstering a community's resiliency by improving the preparedness of this vulnerable population. Nevertheless, this role is one for which agencies lack training and resources, which leaves many homebound at heightened risk. This study examined the utility of an evidence-based Disaster Preparedness Toolkit in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Home-Based Primary Care (HBPC) programs. METHODS We conducted an online survey of all VHA HBPC program managers (N=77/146; 53% response rate). RESULTS Respondents with fewer years with the HBPC program rated the toolkit as being more helpful (P<0.05). Of those who implemented their program's disaster protocol most frequently, two-thirds strongly agreed that the toolkit was relevant. Conversely, of those who implemented their disaster protocols very infrequently or never, 23% strongly agreed that the topics covered in the toolkit were relevant to their work (P<0.05). CONCLUSION This toolkit helps support programs as they fulfill their preparedness requirements, especially practitioners who are new to their position in HBPC. Programs that implement disaster protocols infrequently may require additional efforts to increase understanding of the toolkit's utility. Engaging all members of the team with their diverse clinical expertise could strengthen a patient's personal preparedness plan. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2017;11:56-63).
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Gray L, MacDonald C. Morbid Obesity in Disasters: Bringing the "Conspicuously Invisible" into Focus. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2016; 13:ijerph13101029. [PMID: 27775636 PMCID: PMC5086768 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph13101029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2016] [Revised: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 10/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
It is a frightening reality for some people to be caught up in the midst of a disaster, alone and vulnerable due to their relative size, shape or weight. A literature search failed to find any empirical reports of data specific to body mass index (BMI) in disaster situations. A handful of largely anecdotal reports described situations in which people categorised as morbidly obese were negatively impacted in disasters because of their size and/or weight. While a small number of toolkits and training resources were found, there remains a paucity of research in relation to obesity and emergency planning or disaster risk reduction. This is somewhat surprising, considering the concern about increasing levels of obesity globally. Research is urgently needed to prioritise and address the specific considerations of people with morbid obesity and how communities plan, prepare, respond, and recover from disasters and public health emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Gray
- Department of Primary Health Care & General Practice, University of Otago, Wellington 6242, New Zealand.
- Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University & GNS Science, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.
| | - Carol MacDonald
- Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University & GNS Science, Wellington 6021, New Zealand.
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Wyte-Lake T, Claver M, Dobalian A. Assessing Patients' Disaster Preparedness in Home-Based Primary Care. Gerontology 2016; 62:263-74. [DOI: 10.1159/000439168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic conditions paired with normal aging put home-bound individuals at risk of harm during a disaster. Because of their high rate of comorbidities, veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA)'s home-based primary care (HBPC) program are especially vulnerable, which may prevent them from being prepared for disaster. With intimate knowledge of their patients' home environments, medical needs, resources, and limitations, HBPC practitioners are uniquely positioned to assess and improve disaster preparedness of patients. Objective: This study explored issues regarding disaster preparedness for HBPC patients, including ways in which policy and procedures support routine assessment of disaster preparedness for patients as well as patient education activities. Methods: This project involved 32 semi-structured interviews with practitioners and leadership at 5 VHA HBPC programs - 3 urban and 2 rural. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using content analysis techniques. Results: Three themes emerged regarding the assessment of a patient's disaster preparedness: (1) assessment tools are rudimentary and, in some cases, individually developed by practitioners; (2) comprehension of criteria for assigning risk categories varies among practitioners, and (3) patients' cognitive impairment, limited resources, and out-of-date or inaccessible materials are the primary challenges to their preparedness. A fourth additional theme emerged as well: (4) the interdisciplinary nature of the HBPC team allows for unique innovative practices, such as a central focus on caregiver support and personal safety, as it relates to assessment and preparedness of the patient. Conclusion: Health and functional limitations may prevent home-bound patients from being adequately prepared for disasters. Standardized strategies and tools concerning disaster preparedness assessment for HBPC patients, which allow flexibility in consideration of factors such as local hazards, could assist in creating more comprehensive planning approaches and, in turn, more prepared persons. This is a work of the US Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the USA. Foreign copyrights may apply. Published by S. Karger AG, Basel
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Abstract
AbstractIntroductionVeterans served by Veterans Health Administration (VHA) home-based primary care (HBPC) are an especially vulnerable population due to high rates of physical, functional, and psychological limitations. Home-bound patients tend to be an older population dealing with normal changes that accompany old age, but may not adequately be prepared for the increased risk that often occurs during disasters. Home health programs are in an advantageous position to address patient preparedness as they may be one of the few outside resources that reach community-dwelling adults.ProblemThis study further explores issues previously identified from an exploratory study of a single VHA HBPC program regarding disaster preparedness for HBPC patients, including ways in which policy and procedures support the routine assessment of disaster preparedness for patients, including patient education activities.MethodsThis project involved semi-structured interviews with 31 practitioners and leadership at five VHA HBPC programs; three urban and two rural. Transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using content analysis techniques.ResultsPractitioners reported a need for further training regarding how to assess properly patient disaster preparedness and patient willingness to prepare. Four themes emerged, validating themes identified in a prior exploratory project and identifying additional issues regarding patient disaster preparedness: (1) individual HBPC programs generally are tasked with developing their disaster preparedness policies; (2) practitioners receive limited training about HBPC program preparedness; (3) practitioners receive limited training about how to prepare their patients for a disaster; and (4) the role of HBPC programs is focused on fostering patient self-sufficiency rather than presenting practitioners as first responders. There was significant variability across the five sites in terms of which staff have responsibility for preparedness policies and training.ConclusionVariability across and within sites regarding how patient needs are addressed by preparedness policies, and in terms of preparedness training for HBPC providers, could place patients at heightened risk of morbidity or mortality following a disaster. Despite the diversity and uniqueness of HBPC programs and the communities they serve, there are basic aspects of preparedness that should be addressed by these programs. The incorporation of resources in assessment and preparedness activities, accompanied by increased communication among directors of HBPC programs across the country, may improve HBPC programs’ abilities to assist their patients and their caregivers in preparing for a disaster.ClaverML, Wyte-LakeT, DobalianA. Disaster preparedness in home-based primary care: policy and training. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2015;30(4):17.
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