30 IDENTIFYING THE GAPS BETWEEN BIODEFENSE RESEARCHERS, PUBLIC HEALTH, AND RURAL CLINICAL PRACTICE. (1st January 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Fleet-Green, J. M.; Chen, F. M.; House, P.
• Is Part Of: Journal of investigative medicine. Volume 54:Number 1(2006)
• Page Start: S84
• Page End: S85
• Publication Date: 2006-01-01
• Subjects: Clinical medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Research -- Periodicals; Medicine; Research -- United States; Clinical medicine; Medicine -- Research; Periodicals; 616.075
• DOI: 10.2310/6650.2005.X0004.29
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1081-5589

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: It is essential for health care professionals to be prepared in the event of a bioterrorist attack or other public health emergency. Despite this, many physicians and public health officials still feel unprepared for a bioterrorist event. We sought to determine how well biodefense and emerging infectious disease research information was being disseminated to rural health care providers, first responders, and public health officials. Methods: In June-July, 2005 we conducted semi-structured, audio-taped interviews using the key informant technique. Interviewees were selected from a federally funded research institution and a rural community in Washington State. Population: Ten interview subjects included researchers, community physicians, other health care providers, first responders, and public health officials. Outcomes Measured: Perceived level of biodefense preparedness; quality and quantity of information disseminated regarding biodefense and emerging infectious diseases; communication between clinicians and public health officials; and importance of basic research in biodefense and emerging infectious diseases. Results: Based on interviewee responses, we found that there is inadequate information dissemination regarding biodefense and emerging infectious disease research and an overall lack of preparedness for a bioterrorist event exists among rural clinicians and first responders. In addition, a significant communication gap exists between public health and clinical practice regarding policies for bioterrorism and emerging infectious disease. However, we were surprised to find that there was a great deal of support and understanding for the research enterprise in bioterrorism. Conclusions: Biodefense preparedness and availability of information about emerging infectious diseases continue to be a problem. Further research is needed to develop methods for adequate information dissemination. In addition, the relationship of public health officials and clinicians in rural communities needs to be improved.