Photo Credit: Michael Stifter

Preparedness, flexibility, and commitment to public education are critical to physicians’ abilities to meet community needs in the face of disasters.

The horrendous wildfires and destruction of property in the Los Angeles area have made me think about how we can better prepare and respond to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. I had the opportunity to volunteer and provide medical coverage at the Pasadena Convention Center, which served as an emergency evacuation shelter for those displaced by the Eaton Canyon fire. The outpouring of support from across the country has been phenomenal and everyone can help play a part. Together, we can help our community rebuild. However, the physical and mental trauma that these patients are experiencing is truly heartbreaking.

Why Physicians Should Be Prepared

Natural disasters, such as wildfires, pose significant challenges to communities, demanding swift, effective, and coordinated responses from all over, particularly healthcare. Physicians play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of such disasters by adapting their practices to meet the evolving needs of their communities.

Wildfires can cause immediate health issues, including burns, smoke inhalation, and respiratory problems. Physicians must be prepared to treat these conditions promptly to prevent complications and fatalities. People with pre-existing conditions, such as asthma or heart disease, are at higher risk during wildfires. Physicians must provide continuous care and adjust treatment plans to address exacerbated symptoms. The stress and trauma associated with wildfires can lead to mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Physicians must recognize and address these psychological impacts to support community health.

Physicians should participate in disaster preparedness training and develop emergency response plans. This includes understanding evacuation procedures, establishing communication networks, and ensuring access to medical supplies. Utilizing telemedicine can help maintain continuity of care when physical access to healthcare facilities is limited. Physicians can provide virtual consultations, monitor chronic conditions, and offer mental health support remotely. Working with local authorities, emergency services, and community organizations is essential. Physicians can help coordinate medical response efforts, share critical information, and support public health initiatives. Educating the community about health risks associated with wildfires and preventive measures is crucial. Physicians can conduct workshops, distribute informational materials, and use social media to raise awareness. Adapting practice models to include mobile clinics or temporary medical facilities can ensure that healthcare services remain accessible. Physicians should be ready to provide care in non-traditional settings as needed.

For those who serve on, or who are interested in serving on, the front line providing medical care in emergency evacuation, Panna Lossy, MD, of the California Academy of Family Physicians put together the Disaster Crash Cart after the Santa Rosa fires several years ago. The Disaster Crash Cart provides ideas on setting up systems to provide basic medical care, triage, and manage common issues in evacuation centers. It’s meant to supplement any plans that government and non-governmental organizations may already have in place. Use your judgment and take what works in your situation! This resource is free and available here: https://www.familydocs.org/resources/disaster-crash-cart/

Strategies Physicians Can Implement

Physicians can take several steps to prepare for natural disasters, such as:

• Perform a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards specific to your location, such as wildfires, earthquakes, or floods.
• Create a detailed emergency response plan that includes evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and roles for all staff members.
• Conduct regular drills and simulations to ensure that all staff are familiar with the emergency plan and can execute it effectively.
• Set up telemedicine capabilities to provide remote consultations and follow-ups if physical access to the clinic is disrupted.
• Maintain backup systems for electronic health records and ensure patient information is accessible even if primary systems fail.
• Keep an adequate stock of essential medical supplies, including medications, bandages, and personal protective equipment.
• Prepare emergency kits for staff and patients, including necessities such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and first-aid supplies.
• Establish partnerships with local emergency services, hospitals, and public health agencies to coordinate response efforts and share resources.
• Set up reliable communication channels with local authorities to receive timely updates and instructions during a disaster.
• Implement training programs for all staff members on disaster preparedness, including first aid, CPR, and the use of emergency equipment.
• Clearly define roles and responsibilities for each staff member during an emergency to ensure a coordinated response.
• Participate in community education initiatives to raise awareness about disaster preparedness and the role of healthcare professionals.
• Build support networks with other healthcare professionals and community organizations to enhance resilience.

Physicians play a vital role in responding to the health challenges posed by wildfires. By taking proactive steps, physicians can ensure they are well-prepared to handle the challenges posed by natural disasters, providing continuous, effective care to their communities. Furthermore, they can effectively address immediate and long-term health needs by adapting their practices and collaborating with the community. Preparedness, flexibility, and a commitment to public education are key to ensuring that physicians can meet the demands of their communities during such crises. Physicians provide essential medical care and contribute to the resilience and recovery of their communities.

Want to learn more about the challenges physicians face when natural disasters hit their communities? Check out Hurricanes & Health Care: Weathering the Storm!