Dispensing Mass Prophylaxis - The Search for the Perfect Solution
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Authors
Khan, Sinan
Richter, Anke
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Date of Issue
2012-02
Date
2012-02
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security
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Abstract
"Biological agents can be highly contagious and fatal, requiring a timely response to avoid economic loss, loss of life and largescale panic. Local mass prophylaxis plans are based on the concept of Points of Dispensing (POD). However, there are various challenges that the local health department (LHD) in large metropolitan areas may encounter. We examine the benefits and challenges of POD and proposed alternate modes of dispensing. Considering that resources will always be under pressure, LHD will need to conduct analyses to determine what are the best alternate modes of dispensing for their jurisdiction. As a starting point, each LHD should consider what aspects of their POD plan are most in need of supplementation -- sites, security, staffing, throughput, locations, etc. -- so that the relative importance of addressing the different criteria becomes clearer. Tools from the field of decision analysis can facilitate the analysis and subsequent discussion necessary to make a well-informed choice."
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Article
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This article appeared in Homeland Security Affairs (February 2012), v.8, article 3
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Homeland Security Affairs (February 2012), v.8, article 3
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