Chronically unprepared: emergency preparedness status among US medically vulnerable populations

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of large-scale natural and biological disasters has increased in recent years and can have detrimental impacts on health. Some populations are more susceptible to these impacts, including medically vulnerable populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between medically vulnerable populations and perceived emergency preparedness status.

Methods: This study used 2010 and 2012 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data (n = 33,852). Participants were classified into four exposure groups related to medical vulnerability for each of three chronic diseases. The outcome was based on responses to a question that asked how prepared the individual's household was to handle a large-scale disaster or emergency. Logistic regression was used to assess the medical vulnerability-preparedness association.

Results: In adjusted analyses, individuals who were considered medically vulnerable had approximately 40% decreased odds of feeling prepared (OR range 0.61-0.64) compared to individuals without chronic diseases and disabilities.

Conclusions: Public health professionals should direct their efforts toward medically vulnerable individuals and their preparedness statuses. This study further solidifies the need for community partnerships between medical, emergency, and public health professionals to help individuals prepare for future emergencies.

Keywords: Chronic diseases; Disabilities; Emergency preparedness; Medically vulnerable.