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. 2019 Dec;13(5-6):995-1010.
doi: 10.1017/dmp.2018.163.

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Science and the CBRNE Science Medical Operations Science Support Expert (CMOSSE)

Affiliations

Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) Science and the CBRNE Science Medical Operations Science Support Expert (CMOSSE)

C Norman Coleman et al. Disaster Med Public Health Prep. 2019 Dec.

Abstract

A national need is to prepare for and respond to accidental or intentional disasters categorized as chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE). These incidents require specific subject-matter expertise, yet have commonalities. We identify 7 core elements comprising CBRNE science that require integration for effective preparedness planning and public health and medical response and recovery. These core elements are (1) basic and clinical sciences, (2) modeling and systems management, (3) planning, (4) response and incident management, (5) recovery and resilience, (6) lessons learned, and (7) continuous improvement. A key feature is the ability of relevant subject matter experts to integrate information into response operations. We propose the CBRNE medical operations science support expert as a professional who (1) understands that CBRNE incidents require an integrated systems approach, (2) understands the key functions and contributions of CBRNE science practitioners, (3) helps direct strategic and tactical CBRNE planning and responses through first-hand experience, and (4) provides advice to senior decision-makers managing response activities. Recognition of both CBRNE science as a distinct competency and the establishment of the CBRNE medical operations science support expert informs the public of the enormous progress made, broadcasts opportunities for new talent, and enhances the sophistication and analytic expertise of senior managers planning for and responding to CBRNE incidents.

Keywords: CBRNE; decision-making; disaster planning; emergency operations.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Core Elements of CBRNE Science, Overseen by the CBRNE Medical Operations Science Support Expert
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2. Public Health Emergency Medical Countermeasures Enterprise Agencies, Partnerships, and Mission Components
Abbreviations: USDA, US Department of Agriculture; VA, Department of Veterans Affairs.
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3. Proposed Inclusion of the CBRNE Medical Operations Science Support Expert (CMOSSE)a in the Incident Command System Organizational Structure
a The CMOSSE would be classified as a technical specialist in the National Incident Management System and would work within the Incident Command System during an incident.-
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 4
Nuclear Incident Medical Enterprise

References

    1. Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland Security. National Planning Scenarios. https://www.fema.gov/txt/media/factsheets/2009/npd_natl_plan_scenario.txt. Accessed April 26, 2019.
    1. Alai M, Askin A, Buddemeier B, et al. Radiological Operations Support Specialist (ROSS) Pilot Course Summary and Recommendations. Livermore, CA: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory; September 30, 2016.
    1. Advisory Team for Environment, Food and Health. https://cdn.ymaws.com/www.crcpd.org/resource/resmgr/ATeam/Ateam.htm. Accessed April 26, 2019.
    1. Department of Homeland Security. Response Federal Interagency Operational Plan. 2nd ed. Washington, DC: Department of Homeland Security; August 2016. https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1471452095112-507e23ad4d85449ff1.... Accessed April 26, 2019.
    1. Department of Homeland Security. National Response Framework. 3rd ed. Washington, DC: Department of Homeland Security; June 2016. http://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/1466014682982-9bcf8245ba4c60c120a.... Accessed April 26, 2019.

MeSH terms

Substances