Emergency Relief Efforts in North Texas

Purpose: The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive literature review of modern disasters, the challenges they pose to healthcare, and the architecture of the modern response to them. The study also used available resources to analyze the current state of preparedness for the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) area. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Excerpta Medical Database (EMBASE). Because there is no current literature directly comparing DFW to the national and international levels, we used local government websites to compile a list of resources. Results: Healthcare safety nets (HSN) for emergency situations are set in place at local, state, and national levels to provide immediate aid and to prevent future disasters. Examples for North Texas include: The North Central Texas Council of Governments, The Texas Department of Public Safety, and The Federal Emergency Management Agency. Benefits from HSNs during disasters include increased hygiene, decreased hospital congestion, and improved psychosocial care for community members. However, HSNs face barriers to reach patients without adequate access to information and addressing patient needs efficiently during disaster situations. To address these barriers, HSNs perform tabletop exercises to gather key personnel, review emergency protocols, and discuss roles and responsibilities during mass emergencies. Conclusion: Such preparations improve the efficiency of communication channels between first responders, local hospitals, and regional/state emergency programs and facilitate improved care for disaster scenarios.