U.S. Strategy for Bioterrorism Emergency Medical Preparedness and Response

Abstract

Abstract : The 2002 U.S. National Security Strategy (NSS) highlights the U.S. efforts in strengthening America's homeland security. The NSS specifically uses bioterrorism as the point of reference for improved emergency management systems and charges the medical system to strengthen and manage bioterror as well as all infectious diseases and mass casualty dangers. The 2002 National Strategy for Homeland Security includes numerous emergency preparedness and response initiatives as part of the overall homeland security strategy. Several of these initiatives will significantly affect roles and responsibilities for the Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Additionally, many strategic elements for bioterrorism emergency preparedness and response are in the congressional bioterrorism amendment acts. The purpose of this paper is to serve as a strategic analysis of the U.S. strategy for bioterrorism emergency medical preparedness and response. Specifically, the author will analyze national security strategies pertinent to emergency preparedness and response; examine the current and emerging roles of HHS and DOD in emergency medical preparedness and response; review current bioterrorism threats; and assess interagency collaborative planning. The author also recommends that federal agencies adopt a coherent bioterrorism defense strategic framework and makes other recommendations for DOD and HHS initiatives in bioterrorism emergency medical preparedness and response.