Vulnerable populations in a disaster response

Lessons learned from past disasters prompted the development of a comprehensive response plan to identify resources and locate vulnerable populations. A database was created in an interactive mapping format using GIS technology that included detailed information about medical facilities and the needs of patients.

In October, 2007, this plan was put into use. Using GIS, EMS was able to pre-plan the evacuation of threatened facilities and medically fragile patients. Epidemiologists were able to draw perimeters around fire and evacuation zones in order to locate nursing homes and other medical facilities within affected areas. Using the vulnerable populations database, contact information was immediately available. Staff called each facility to assess evacuation plans and determine needs. Epidemiologists were also able to provide real-time updates on facility status, shelter status and road closures.

More than 2,100 medically fragile individuals, including two hospitals, were safely evacuated and transported to appropriate facilities. This feat would not have been possible without the ability to pre-plan evacuations. The production of maps predicting fire paths and threatened facilities allowed for ambulances and receiving facilities to be notified well in advance.

Currently, EMS is working with all of the local nursing homes and hospitals to develop integrated response plans for future disasters. New methods of locating vulnerable populations are constantly be tested and the database is updated on an on-going basis. The system is continually evolving. A well-known plan to identify vulnerable populations stimulates thinking about disaster planning.