Preparedness Theory and Practice
- Medical Response Capability Measurement Metrics
The national preparedness goal seeks to establish measurable readiness priorities and targets that appropriately balance the potential threat and magnitude of terrorist attacks and other major disasters (HSPD-8). We propose to develop a scalable system (Risk Ready Toolkit) that measures risk of a given entity and compares it to the current state of readiness to meet the risk(s) being assessed. Any such system should be scalable so that it can apply to very specific risks (e.g. nuclear power plant), in a given jurisdiction, to broader entities such as entire communities, states, and regions—and ultimately to the nation. It should also be sufficiently robust to address unique risks, such as readiness for a particular biologic or chemical weapon, as well as to all hazards measurements. Similarly, this tool should be sufficiently robust to be applicable not only to geographic threats, but also to systems integrity threats such as those to communications and information architecture.
- Five Dimensions of Preparedness
The possibility of a catastrophic, high-consequence event requires that policy makers devise comprehensive policies, using a ‘5D’ approach: i.e., deterrence, dissuasion, denial, diplomacy, and defense. Each of these concepts has an important, unique role in prevention of these events, yet none have been fully explored or implemented. The problem is to convert these concepts into concrete working policies and programs.
- Policy, Ethics and Law
There are a wide variety of legal issues, ranging from ‘simple’ questions of privacy to complex constitutional issues. The JHSPH Center for Law and the Public’s Health has explored some of these issues, and has written model policies for states and municipalities.
- The Divergent Responses of Law Enforcement Officers in the Midst of a Crisis: Katrina
This study examines the role and responses of the Biloxi-Gulfport Police Departments during the Hurricane Katrina crisis and compares the challenges and issues faced by these departments with the New Orleans Police Department. This comparative analysis will provide insight into the human dilemmas that can impact preparedness and response of law enforcement personnel to catastrophic events.