Our most pressing challenges in healthcare require focused, constructive discussions. Sharing openly and listening to diverse perspectives and experiences. At Healthcare Excellence Canada, we’ve developed the Spotlight Series to do just that.
It’s about connecting people to have conversations with a purpose. Responding quickly to current issues by featuring strategies for improvement that are transferable. We’ll explore solutions to make improvements last, as we work together to shape the future of quality and safety in healthcare across the country.
#What We've Learned (So Far): Preparing and Responding to Natural Disasters
We've seen more wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters in recent years. These events significantly affect individuals and communities - physically, mentally and spiritually. Needing to evacuate homes and communities can be traumatizing. Likewise, the evacuation of health facilities is challenging and complex for staff, patients, and families. This is especially true for people who live in rural and remote areas at higher risk of wildfires.
Natural disasters affect the ability of health systems to deliver safe and high-quality health and social care. What strategies can we use to prepare for, and respond to, these emergencies to reduce the burden on people, communities and health systems?
Join us as we explore the lessons learned from responding to natural disasters through the lens of policy-makers, health leaders, and emergency responders.
#Host
Colleen Ferris, Director, Innovations & Strategic Development, Healthcare Excellence Canada
#Panelists
- Andrew Moull, Manager, Emergency and Disaster Management, Hamilton Health Sciences
- Trevor Jain, MD, Clinical Health Service Member, Canadian Armed Forces
- Michelle Villeneuve, PhD, Associate Professor, University of Sydney; Deputy Director, Centre for Disability Research and Policy
- Graham Dodd, MD, Associate Medical Director, Health Emergency Management BC (HEMBC); Physician Lead, Emergency Preparedness, Thompson Region Division of Family Practice