From silos to coalitions: The evolution of the US Hospital Preparedness Program

Sharon Medcalf, Shreya Roy, Sarbinaz Bekmuratova, Wael ElRayes, Harlan Sayles, Jonathon Gruba, Ronald Shope

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this article is to trace the hospital emergency preparedness movement in the United States, strengthen the case for hospital investments in emergency preparedness, and make recommendations to ensure sustainability of the program. Design/Approach: This article is a narrative review. Main themes from the literature about the US Hospital Preparedness Program (HPP) are discussed, beginning with the trends in funding levels of the HPP, the rise of regional healthcare coalitions, preparedness performance measures, and the challenges faced over the past 15 years of HPP activities. Finally, recommendations are made about ways to sustain the program. Findings: The HPP was established in 2002 and funding for the program has seen a 56 percent decrease over the last 16 years. Beyond the initial investment in supplies and equipment, hospitals have received very little of the healthcare preparedness funding. Disaster drills and exercises to test emergency plans in hospitals are perceived as a costly distraction from daily work. The biggest challenge is the lack of engagement and support from hospital leadership. Conclusions: To ensure the sustainability of the HPP, the positive impact of preparedness activities on the hospital's day-to-day operations must be demonstrated.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)163-169
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Emergency Management
Volume18
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2020

Keywords

  • Business case
  • Federal funding
  • Hospital emergency preparedness
  • Hospital leadership
  • Hospital preparedness program
  • United States

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Emergency Medicine
  • Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality
  • Safety Research

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