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Abstract #152661

• Handout (free access)

Uwe Reischl, PhD, MD, College of Health Sciences, Boise State University, 1910 University Dr., Boise, ID 83725-1835, (208) 426-2445, ureischl@boisestate.edu, Newell Gough, PhD, College of Business and Economics, Boise State University, 1910 University Dr., Boise, ID 83725-1625, and Vidya Nandikolla, PhD, College of Engineering, Boise State University, 1910 University Dr., Boise, ID 83725-2075.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) anticipate that the H5N1 influenza virus will reach the United States in the near future. The potential health and economic consequences for the country can be far-reaching. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has identified local business preparedness as a priority. Assisting local companies in the development of business continuity plans may help protect the social and business infrastructure during a pandemic. A simple and easy to use business continuity management tool has been developed with the support of health departments and local businesses. The model allows businesses to estimate the impact of a potential Bird Flu pandemic on their ability to continue business operations. This tool accommodates employee absenteeism rates up to 50%, the maximal rates projected by CDC. The model considers core corporate business functions, the identification of main operational tasks associated with each of these functions, and the allocation of specific personnel to each task. Preparing the input for this model requires 2 to 6 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the company. The tool is available in a “table-top” format including process flow-diagrams drawn onto a display board. This approach allows several persons to contribute simultaneously. An electronic version of the management tool is also available for PC applications. The presentation outlines the strategy and logic contained in the bird flu business continuity management tool and includes a short demonstration of a “real-world” application.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize key business concerns associated with a Bird Flu pandemic
• Identify the impact of high employee absenteeism on business continuity and operations
• Recognize potential applications of the new management tool to healthcare facilities

Keywords: Disasters, Business Plans

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No
Any institutionally-contracted trials related to this submission?

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

• Handout (free access)