The Message Climate change and resource constraints (natural resources and

financial resources) will result in increased propensity for natural

disasters and man-made conflicts in the developing and developed

world.

There is a tremendous demand for trained healthcare professionals

in these situations.

Until now, training in disaster management has primarily been

undertaken outside of medical schools and the specialty training

programmes.

A training course on managing disasters beginning in medical

school and then continuing through higher specialty training is

essential if we are to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Pleasing to the eye!

Not really! The context doesn’t allow it.

However, pictures say a thousand words and they have been utilised in such a way as to depict the gravity of the situation.

The layout is similar to the concept of a wall with pictures of missing persons that happens after disasters.

Has the clear potential to help a decision be made (or has realised that potential)

Disasters are expected to get more frequent and working in such situations is very challenging.

There is considerable interest amongst medical professionals to work in these challenging situations.

Organisations working in such situations are facing immense human resource pressure, but it is important that trained professionals are utilised so that the aid workers themselves do not become a liability.

Knowledge of the “Natural history of the natural disaster” will help medical students and specialty trainees understand the different phases, the major health and safety concerns in different phases and will prepare them for what to expect if and when they enter field work.

This project is currently in the development stage and will be rolled out for medical students in the first instance, with the potential for expanding to trainees in various disciplines.

Demonstrates one or more of the 10 public health competencies

This work will contribute to public health competencies mainly from:

Key Area 9: Academic Public Health