Disasters and Health Equity Topic Brief-Disasters and Health Equity Topic Brief

Disasters and Health Equity Topic Brief

Pdf Summary

The "Disasters and Health Equity" topic brief by the Emergency Nurses Association highlights the importance of preparing nurses to respond to disasters to minimize health inequities that may arise during such events. The document emphasizes strengthening nurses' capacity in disaster preparedness and public health emergency response to address social determinants of health and improve equity. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic underscore the significance of equity and local action in disaster resilience.<br /><br />Disasters create conditions that impact communities' functioning and access to healthcare, especially affecting vulnerable populations like older adults, those with pre-existing health conditions, and socially disadvantaged groups. Mitigating health disparities in disasters requires considering vulnerable populations and implementing disaster risk assessments that account for social vulnerability.<br /><br />The topic brief outlines strategies to mitigate inequities in disasters, focusing on vulnerable populations like marginalized groups, older adults, racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQIA individuals, those with mental health issues, low socioeconomic status, women, children, and individuals with chronic health conditions. Recommendations include incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion practices in disaster planning, providing resources for patients, and advocating for fair resource allocation.<br /><br />By recognizing vulnerabilities within communities and engaging in advocacy efforts, emergency nurses can play a crucial role in addressing health disparities, supporting community resilience, and promoting equity in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The document includes appendices with clinical resources, patient resources, and references supporting the information presented.

Keywords

Disasters

Health Equity

Emergency Nurses Association

Disaster Preparedness

Public Health Emergency Response

Social Determinants of Health

Health Inequities

Vulnerable Populations

Disaster Resilience

Health Disparities