In the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy: Lesson learned from front-line healthcare workers in New York

Health workers are essential during natural disaster such as Hurricane Sandy. Studies have shown that healthcare response plans need to promote confidence of frontline health care workers in their defined role, emphasize the value of their role and address their family concerns. This poster describes the emergency preparedness, response and recovery experiences and lessons-learned of a group of 75 front-line healthcare workers at acute care hospitals and long-term care facilities in the New York City area before, during and after Hurricane Sandy. The members of this group were all experienced health and safety peer trainers through their Local Union, 1199 SEIU United Healthcare Workers East (1199 SEIU UHE). Their Local Union participates in an NIEHS Worker Education and Training Program (WETP) through the national SEIU Education & Support Fund. Based on the experience of these front-line healthcare workers, recommendations are made for improving emergency response plans for healthcare employers.