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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Doris G. Brown, MS, MEd, RN, CNS and Clair P. Millet, MN, APRN, CNS. Nursing Services, Department of Health and Hospitals, Office of Public Health, 8919 World Ministry Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70810, 225-763-3965, dbrown@dhh.la.gov

Upon landfall, Hurricanes Katrina & Rita incapacitated a significant number of Louisiana's hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Over 786,000 residents and health care professionals were displaced causing a disruption to Louisiana's primary health care delivery structure. Possible disease outbreaks, water contamination, chemical exposure, Special Needs Sheltering and other health risks to Louisiana residents warranted the need for Louisiana's Public Health Workforce to respond. Despite preparations made beforehand, the State was faced with the immense challenge of meeting the needs of tens of thousands of victims requiring medical care and assistance with a diminished medical infrastructure. This presentation will take the viewer through Louisiana's preparation, response and recovery efforts pre/post Hurricanes Katrina & Rita.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the particpant will be able to

• Define Louisiana's Public Health Workforce role and responsiblities during emergency situations.
• Recognize challenges the State of Louisiana faced in meeting the medical needs of tens of thousands displaced residents with a diminished medical infrastructure.
• Identify lessons learned and successes during Hurricanes Katrina & Rita.

Keywords: Public Health, Emergency

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation