Because disasters strike without warning, in areas often unprepared for such events, all emergency services personnel need to have a foundation in the practical aspects of disaster preparedness and response, and all healthcare providers need to understand their role in a disaster.

All disasters follow a cyclical pattern known as the disaster cycle, which describes four operational stages: mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. Disaster medicine specialists have a role in each part of this cycle.

Disaster specialists should participate in mitigation and preparedness at the hospital, local, and regional levels as active community members.

Our 4 panelists will share their experience in preparing, mitigating, responding, and recovering from the disasters they have faced. The floor will be open then for questions and answers from the public.