Think About It-Website Exploration

  1. As we begin to think about being active and prepared, explore the website for The National Center for Disaster Medicine and Public Health
     (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
     and the links that are specific to your region or area of interest to learn more about health (physical and psychosocial) and environmental impacts or preparedness needs for these disaster precipitators.
  2. In California we have the Disaster Healthcare Volunteers Site
     (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
    , where healthcare professionals and those with healthcare experience can express a desire to be a volunteer should a disaster happen. Is there something similar where you live?

The website provided several links regarding natural disasters. When looking at this site and the references for natural disasters, I immediately began to think about Hurricane Harvey and the devastation it caused. Specifically, I began to think about the weeks after and the environmental impact the storm had on the Texas residents and their health. A site like the one listed above is incredibly helpful for those facing a natural disaster or the aftermath of one.  Like California, Texas does have a healthcare volunteer site. The Texas Disaster Volunteer Registry is a site where healthcare professionals and those with healthcare experience can express a desire to be a volunteer should a disaster happen. I have several friends who have registered with this service and have worked during Hurricane Harvey. However, being a state employee and working in the Infectious Disease and Prevention Section, I am automatically required to work longer hours when a natural disaster strikes. Therefore, I cannot register with this service. 

Comments

  1. UnknownDecember 2, 2018 at 4:49 PM

    Interesting! I think its good to hear that your role as a state employee requires you to respond especially long work hours. Thank you for sharing and it looks like you really know your resources and information. It also seems that you could be prepared especially if you are mandated to respond. Do you receive additional trainings on this?

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousDecember 4, 2018 at 2:00 AM

    Hi Ryan,

    I'm glad that you found what was listed on the website regarding natural disasters such as hurricanes helpful. I think it is important for these kind of websites and resources to continously be updated and provide the most relevant information for readers, especially those who might be experiencing the effects of a natural disaster. The Texas Disaster Volunteer Registry sounds like a great resource and opportunity for qualitfied health professionals to volunteer during times in need. We need more registries like this!

    ReplyDelete

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