Public Health Reports · 2008 · 39 citations · 14 references
ManagementEmergency PlanningEmergency PreparednessDisaster ResponseEmergency ManagementPublic Health Emergency PlanningEmergency ResponsePreparedness PlanningPublic Health Emergency ManagementPublic Health Emergency PolicyPublic Health Emergency ResponseRegional OrganizationsCoordinated Response PlanningHealth Services PolicyInformal Knowledge NetworksLocal Emergency ManagementPublic Health Capacity BuildingRegional Emergency CoordinationRegional Governance StructuresRegional Response Coordination
Regionalization in local public health systems arises from crises or capacity needs, varies in structure and partner alignment, and relies on strong leadership and trust for effective coordination. The article argues that regionalization improves emergency preparedness by enabling efficient resource use, better coordination, and progress in planning, capacity building, training, exercises, and professional networking. The findings show that regionalization results in more efficient resource use, enhanced coordination, and advances in planning, capacity building, training, exercises, and professional networking.
Comparative case studies found that regionalization originated from a crisis or perceived need for a coordinated response, a need to build local public health capacity, or an effort to use federal preparedness funds more efficiently. Regions vary in terms of their congruence with regional structures for partner agencies, such as emergency management agencies, as well as hospital and health services markets and organizational structure. Some focus on building formal organizational relationships to coordinate and sometimes standardize preparedness and response activities or build regional capacity, while others focus on building informal professional networks. Whatever the approach, strong leadership and trust are required for effective planning, emergency response, and sustainability. This article suggests that regionalization improves emergency preparedness by allowing for more efficient use of resources and better coordination and demonstrated progress in terms of planning and coordination; regional capacity-building, training, and exercises; and development of professional networks.
14