Training for effective decision-making in bioterrorism preparedness and response

Abstract

The events of September 11, 2001, and beyond have heightened concern about bioterrorism. At the core of terrorism is the unpredictability of events. In this regard, effective counter-bioterrorism measures should be comprehensive, and concurrently address the multiple facets of prevention and control of disease and injury. An academic course that seeks to engender this comprehensive perspective and approach by using the epidemiological model will be described. MHE 507 (Bioterrorism Issues) is a core course for the master's degree in emergency and disaster management at Touro University International (TUI). This is a 12-week distance-learning course (primarily CD-ROM based), and serves as a comprehensive introduction to bioterrorism as a major threat to national security and public health. Emphasis is given to the potential use and consequences of selected agents as weapons of mass destruction. Prevention, control, and research strategies are discussed along with legal and policy issues. The course is conducted on a modular basis, and learning competencies are assessed through multiple short analytical papers, a session-long project in the form of a position paper, and participation in asynchronous online discussions. This course has been offered by TUI for the past 2 years, and attracts senior health and social science professionals or administrators, primarily military personnel. In general, the use of the epidemiological model facilitates participants' giving greater consideration to objectivity and plausibility while focusing on the big picture. Above all, critical thinking is fostered, especially with regard to decision-making amidst uncertainty. An understanding of the multiple facets of bioterrorism and their interrelationship is critical to effective and efficient bioterrorism preparedness and response. Training programs based on the epidemiological framework offer much potential for facilitating the acquisition of such knowledge and reasoning. This is especially important given the varied backgrounds of those involved in policy and decision-making. Evaluation of this course is ongoing.