Recalibrating the management of resources in emergency response

Abstract

AbstractThis article is an example of ‘Lessons from the Field’. Traditionally, preparedness activities emphasize acquisition of resources and the evaluation of resource capabilities. However, as local health departments (LHDs) move into a post‐coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) reality, we suggest greater emphasis be placed on the management of resources. In other words, all‐hazards planning should include policies that empower incident management personnel to complete specific tasks and procedures that ensure adequate and equitable resource deployment. Although resource management looks different for every organisation, identifying and reviewing some of the challenges experienced in Lake County, IL, during the COVID‐19 response may highlight practical solutions for LHDs. Policies and procedures governing resource management during Lake County's COVID‐19 response affected the ability of the Public Health Emergency Operations Center to maintain a common operating picture, provide clear job roles and responsibilities, and prioritize resource application in a dynamic environment. The pace of a global emergency may impact the ability of organisations to conduct these activities, but decision‐makers must obtain the information most likely to impact response efforts. Regardless of the specific resources being applied during an emergency, there will always be a need to identify and review objectives, assess the impact of resource allocation, and adjust resource assignments.