CONCLUSION
Disasters happen, and medical personnel are critical assets during a disaster response. Most disaster-related illnesses and injuries are mundane but are exacerbated by disrupted community infrastructure. Emergency responders with pre-existing knowledge enable a more efficient and effective response—a very important commodity when a disaster-stricken community has been waiting several days for help. PAs have the basic medical skills necessary to effectively provide medical care to disaster survivors, but most need specific education about disaster medicine, disaster response, and disaster management. PAs can become leaders in disaster medicine and help guide the profession's growth into this aspect of health care. JAAPA
John Lynch is working in the Middle East with the United States Department of State. He is certified in Major Incident Medical Management and Support (MIMMS) and as a National Disaster Life Support Instructor. He has indicated no relationships to disclose relating to the content of this article.
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