Citation

Coleman CN, Bader JL, Koerner JF, Hrdina C, Cliffer KD, Hick JL, James JJ, Mansoura MK, Livinski AA, Nystrom SV, DiCarlo-Cohen A, Marinissen MJ, Wathen L, Appler JM, Buddemeier B, Casagrande R, Estes D, Byrne P, Kennedy EM, Jakubowski AA, Case C, Weinstock DM, Dainiak N, Hanfling D, Garrett AL, Grant NN, Dodgen D, Redlener I, MacKAY TF, Treber M, Homer MJ, Taylor TP, Miller A, Korch G, Hatchett R. Disaster Med. Public Health Prep. 2019; ePub(ePub): 1-16.

Affiliation

Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations,London, England, UK.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health, Publisher Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/dmp.2018.163

PMID

31203830

Abstract

A national need is to prepare for and respond to accidental or intentional disasters categorized as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE). These incidents require specific subject-matter expertise, yet have commonalities. We identify 7 core elements comprising CBRNE science that require integration for effective preparedness planning and public health and medical response and recovery. These core elements are (1) basic and clinical sciences, (2) modeling and systems management, (3) planning, (4) response and incident management, (5) recovery and resilience, (6) lessons learned, and (7) continuous improvement. A key feature is the ability of relevant subject matter experts to integrate information into response operations. We propose the CBRNE medical operations science support expert as a professional who (1) understands that CBRNE incidents require an integrated systems approach, (2) understands the key functions and contributions of CBRNE science practitioners, (3) helps direct strategic and tactical CBRNE planning and responses through first-hand experience, and (4) provides advice to senior decision-makers managing response activities. Recognition of both CBRNE science as a distinct competency and the establishment of the CBRNE medical operations science support expert informs the public of the enormous progress made, broadcasts opportunities for new talent, and enhances the sophistication and analytic expertise of senior managers planning for and responding to CBRNE incidents.

Language: en

Keywords

CBRNE; decision-making; disaster planning; emergency operations