Family Reunification After Disasters

Abstract

Family reunification after disasters remains a priority for all involved in disaster response. The psychological stress for children separated from their families after disasters can be significant and the effects can be prolonged. Unfortunately, planning for family reunification after disasters continues to be fragmented and only exists in silos. This is particularly true in the medical arena where hospital staff must prepare to both care for unidentified children with unknown medical histories and reunite them with their families. Pediatric health care providers have many opportunities to help families and their communities, including schools and daycares, plan for such disasters. The purpose of the article is to present the effects of delayed family reunification on children, the role of the pediatric health care provider in individual family and community reunification planning, available family reunification resources, reunification systems including social media, and use of technology for family reunification. Recommendations for next steps for creating a more coordinated family reunification system will also be provided.