Disaster Preparedness

disaster plan

Pediatric disaster preparedness is a noted ongoing gap in New Hampshire emergency departments (EDs) as reflected in the past several National Pediatric Readiness Project (NPRP) assessments. Multiple national, state, and professional resources exist to assist EDs in closing that gap.

State Resources

  • The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery (EPRR) serves as the lead for State Emergency Support Function-8 (ESF-8) Public Health and Emergency Services.
  • The Granite State Healthcare Coalition maintains and houses the Pediatric Surge Annex, coordinates and runs disaster drills, and acts as a resource for all stages of a disaster.
  • The Regional Public Health Network (RPHN) serves every community in the state by integrating multiple public health initiatives and services into a common network of community stakeholders.

National Resources

  • The Pediatric Pandemic Network (PPN) was created in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and now collaborates with national partners to empower all healthcare systems to be prepared to provide pediatric care in everyday emergencies, disasters, and global health threats. New Hampshire’s hub site is located at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital.
  • The National Pediatric Disaster Coalition (NPDC) seeks to improve pediatric disaster care by leveraging a multidisciplinary cohort that works nationwide to strengthen healthcare organizations and communities preparing for and responding to disasters.
  • The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Technical Resources, Assistance Center, and Information Exchange (TRACIE) provide a collection of resources that can help healthcare facilities, healthcare coalitions, and other health and medical providers consider the specialized care and resources needed for children prior to, during, and after an incident.

American Academy of Pediatrics

  • The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has a variety of resources for professionals and families seeking to close the gap in pediatric disaster management. A toolkit for professionals can be found here.

Pediatric Emergency Care Coordinator Resources

  • EMS for Children (EMSC) has a variety of disaster resources aimed at the PECC role to include a disaster checklist, a companion guide designed for PECCs with no to minimal disaster background, and QI initiatives.