Public Health Response to a Nuclear/Radiological Emergency
J.J. Lanza (Florida Department of Health)
The new National Response Plan (NRP) utilizing the National Incident Management System (NIMS) stresses the all-hazards approach to domestic incident management including nuclear/radiological emergencies resulting from natural, man-made accidents, as well as man-made intentional events. Secondary to the events of September 11, 2001, the public health infrastructure in the United States has been significantly augmented. However, recent surveys conducted by governmental and private public health organizations have shown that public health workers feel that they are unprepared to deal with radiological terrorism/ emergencies. Federal, State, and local public health agencies are developing awareness training programs for public health workers, first responders, and the general public describing the role of public health during nuclear/radiological emergencies. This presentation will cover the role of federal response teams and State and local public health service providers prior to, and subsequent of, a nuclear/radiological emergency. Special attention will be paid to the emergency response structure at all levels.