Analysis of Risk Communication Strategies and Approaches with at-Risk Populations to Enhance Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery: Final Report

摘要

In this report, we use a broadened definition of at-risk populations that considers both the HHS working definition for at-risk individuals and that used by the CDC within the context of CERC (Reynolds, 2007). HHS defines the needs of at-risk individuals on the basis of five functional areas (shown below in italics). Before, during, and after an incident, members of at-risk populations may have additional needs in one or more of the following functional areas: Maintaining Independence--Individuals in need of support that enables them to be independent in daily activities. Communication--Individuals who have limitations that interfere with the receipt of and response to information. Transportation--Individuals who cannot drive due to the presence of a disability or who do not have a vehicle. Supervision--Individuals who require the support of caregivers, family, or friends or have limited ability to cope in a new environment. Medical Care--Individuals who are not self-sufficient or do not have or have lost adequate support from caregivers and need assistance with managing medical conditions. In addition to those individuals specifically recognized as at-risk in the PAHPA (i.e., children, senior citizens, and pregnant women) individuals who may need additional response assistance should include those who have disabilities; live in institutionalized settings; are from diverse cultures; have limited English proficiency or are non-English speaking; are transportation disadvantaged; have chronic medical disorders; and have pharmacological dependency.