Chain Reaction

Government Executive July 15, 2003

Whether responding to a terrorist attack with biological agents or a naturally-occurring infectious disease, the health care system is only as strong as its weakest link, health officials say.

Hospitals

Many face shortages of:
  • beds
  • isolation facilities
  • critical equipment, such as ventilators
  • key personnel, such as nurses

Health Departments

Many lack:
  • key personnel, especially nurses and epidemiologists
  • critical communications technologies, including computers and Internet access

Public Health Laboratories

Many labs have:
  • critical shortfalls of skilled personnel
  • inadequate facilities and equipment
  • poor physical security
  • inadequate relationships with clinical labs

Post a Comment

To post a comment, you must provide a name and a valid e-mail address. Messages must be limited to 400 words. By using this Service you agree not to post material that is obscene, harassing, defamatory, or otherwise objectionable. Although Government Executive does not monitor comments posted to this site (and has no obligation to), it reserves the right to delete, edit, or move any material that it deems to be in violation of this rule.

Chain Reaction
*
*
*