Public Health Workforce Function and Preparedness in a Disaster: The Case of Hurricane Irene

Disasters and complex emergencies test the functionality, capacity and capabilities of public health organizations. In 2010, Hurricane Irene threatened the US east coast as a Category 3 storm. In response to potential flooding, electrical outages, and critical infrastructure damage, public health emergency plans were activated throughout the area. Over 55 hospitals and nursing homes in New York State evacuated voluntarily or under mandatory order. The storm presented a unique opportunity to examine the public health workforce response. This study's objectives were to: (1) assess the workforce's response to a complex emergency; (2) consider the workforce's ability and willingness to report to work; (3) examine their functional roles; and (4) explore public health's capacity to respond to such an event. The study was designed by a university-based team at Columbia University's Regional Learning Center in collaboration with the local public health agencies in a 28-county area encompassing New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. The study yielded 1,493 responses, 43% of the surveyed public health workforce. Overall, 41% of the workforce responded over the initial weekend, with the greatest response from senior-level officials (74%). A large number (38%) received overtime pay; approximately 22% of the workers who were asked to report were unable or unwilling to do so. A measure of “unmet need for training” was developed, based upon exposure to training within specific functional areas and the efficacy of such training. The project has served health agencies as an assessment of workforce function and a guide to future workforce development.