NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

Name

Capella university

NURS-FPX 4060 Practicing in the Community to Improve Population Health

Prof. Name

Date

Introduction

Greetings, everyone; my name is ____, and today, my presentation revolves around developing a robust disaster recovery plan tailored specifically for the resilient community of Carterdale. In light of recent events, particularly the devastating tornado that swept through this region, it has become imperative to fortify the preparedness and response mechanisms. Through collaborative efforts and strategic foresight, we aim to chart a course that ensures our community’s safety, well-being, and swift recovery in the face of adversity without inflicting the harms of health disparities. Today’s discourse marks a pivotal step towards safeguarding Carterdale’s future resilience against unforeseen challenges. Let’s begin. 

Disaster Recovery Plan

A catastrophic tornado that struck Carterdale, Mississippi, caused massive destruction and significantly impacted the community. The tornado, which had an Enhanced Fujita rating of 4, caused significant damage, especially in Carterdale and Silver City. Residents, many living below the poverty line, faced challenges exacerbated by insufficient warning systems. Recovery efforts are underway, but the emotional toll on affected families is profound. Staff at Carterdale Regional Hospital report difficulties in delivering medical care due to havoc and resource shortages.

Past catastrophes, such as the tornado that struck Joplin, Missouri in 2011, have taught us the value of early warning systems and community support. As a senior nurse at Carterdale Regional Hospital, I must create a disaster recovery plan that addresses health inequities, is specific to the needs of this community, and improves access to immediate community health services.

Determinants of Health

The many variables that affect people’s health and well-being both directly and indirectly are referred to as determinants of health. Broad categories for these variables include those related to the healthcare system, policies, social, behavioral, biological, and economic aspects. Biological elements comprise heredity and personal characteristics, whereas behavioral factors include habits and way of life decisions. Social and economic factors, such as income, education, and social support, significantly impact health outcomes (Kleinman et al., 2021).

Environmental factors, including living conditions and access to resources, also play significant roles. Additionally, the healthcare system’s accessibility, quality, and infrastructure, along with government policies and regulations, shape overall population health. Understanding and addressing these determinants are essential for fostering health equity, disease prevention, and improved community well-being (Evans et al., 2021).

Barriers Impacting Safety, Health, and Disaster Recovery Efforts

The efforts of a community to promote safety and health and recover from disasters can be significantly impacted by cultural variations. These barriers arise from diverse cultural beliefs, values, and practices that may influence individuals’ perceptions and behaviors during emergencies. Cultural Language barriers can hinder effective communication and dissemination of critical information, leading to misunderstandings and delays in response efforts (Safapour et al., 2021). Cultural norms and traditions may also affect help-seeking behaviors, as individuals may be reluctant to seek assistance from authorities or utilize available resources due to cultural stigma or distrust.

Additionally, cultural differences in beliefs about illness, treatment, and healthcare practices can impact access to care and adherence to disaster preparedness measures (Rouhanizadeh et al., 2020). The diverse racial composition of Carterdale’s population, including Black or African American (73.25%), White (24.25%), Native American (1.5%), and other races (1%), highlights the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to disaster preparedness and recovery. Language barriers, cultural norms, and beliefs may affect residents’ understanding of emergency protocols and willingness to seek help, thereby impacting the effectiveness of response efforts.

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

Social barriers can significantly impede efforts related to health, safety, and disaster recovery within a community. These barriers often stem from complex social dynamics, including community cohesion and access to social support networks. Lack of cohesion or trust may result in fragmented response efforts during disasters, hindering effective communication and coordination among residents and emergency responders.

Additionally, limited access to social support networks can exacerbate vulnerabilities, particularly for marginalized or isolated populations, impeding their ability to access resources during emergencies (Weir et al., 2020). In Carterdale, Mississippi, social barriers are evident in the close-knit community dynamics. With a population of 1,800 people and a high poverty rate of 39.1%, the community may face challenges in accessing social support and resources during disasters. Additionally, shortcomings in communication and warning systems, as reported by residents who did not hear sirens during the recent tornado, underscore potential barriers to coordinating disaster response efforts effectively.

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

Economic barriers can pose significant challenges to efforts aimed at promoting health, safety, and disaster recovery within a community. These barriers arise from disparities in income, employment opportunities, and access to resources, which can exacerbate vulnerabilities during emergencies. Inadequate financial resources may limit individuals’ ability to access healthcare services, secure essential supplies, or evacuate safely during disasters (Rouhanizadeh et al., 2020). Moreover, low-income households may face difficulties in rebuilding and recovering from the impact of disasters, further widening socioeconomic disparities within the community. The high poverty rate (39.1%) and low median household income ($30,092) in Carterdale exacerbate the community’s vulnerability to disasters. Limited financial resources may impede access to essential services and hinder recovery efforts for individuals and families.

The interrelationships among social, economic, and cultural factors are intricate and collectively influence health outcomes, safety, and disaster recovery efforts within a community. Social dynamics, such as community cohesion and trust, can affect individuals’ access to economic resources and social support networks. In turn, economic inequality may make social inequality worse and make it more difficult for people to prepare for and recover from disasters adequately. Cultural beliefs and practices influence social norms and behaviors, shaping how individuals perceive and respond to health risks and emergencies (Rouhanizadeh et al., 2020).

Proposed Disaster Recovery Plan

The disaster recovery plan is developed for Carterdale, Mississippi, using the MAP-IT approach. This approach expands to Mobilize, Assess, Plan, Implement, and Track (American College Health Association, 2023). Following this plan, Carterdale Regional Hospital can enhance its resilience and capacity to respond effectively to future emergencies. The plan is described below:

Mobilize

We will form a coalition comprising hospital staff, local government officials, community leaders, emergency response teams, and representatives from social service agencies to ensure a comprehensive disaster recovery plan for Carterdale. Engaging community members will be prioritized through town hall meetings, online forums, and local events to raise awareness and gather input, ensuring inclusivity and community ownership of the plan.

Assess

A thorough assessment of Carterdale’s vulnerabilities will be conducted, considering factors such as population demographics, socioeconomic status, healthcare infrastructure, and past disaster experiences. This will involve identifying existing resources and strengths within the community, including healthcare facilities, trained personnel, volunteer networks, and emergency response capabilities. Additionally, data from Healthy People 2020 will be utilized to pinpoint priority areas for improvement, such as access to healthcare services, disaster preparedness education, and mental health support (CDC, n.d.).

Plan

A vision statement for disaster preparedness and recovery in Carterdale will be developed, outlining goals for enhancing resilience and minimizing the impact of future disasters. A strategic plan with specific objectives, strategies, and action steps will be tailored to the community’s needs and resources. This plan will align with the goals and objectives of Healthy People 2020, emphasizing on enhancing community resilience, addressing social determinants of health, and promoting health equity.

Implement

Concrete action steps will be executed to implement the disaster recovery plan effectively. This includes establishing a coordinated communication system for disseminating emergency alerts and updates to residents, enhancing infrastructure resilience through retrofitting buildings (Riani & Ikhwan, 2024). Additionally, our plan will improve stormwater management, provide training and resources to healthcare providers and first responders on disaster response protocols and procedures with collaborative effort. Community education programs on disaster preparedness will also be offered, covering evacuation routes, shelter-in-place procedures, and emergency supply kits.

Track

Lastly, the mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the disaster recovery plan will be established. Regular reviews of key performance indicators and outcome measures will be conducted to assess progress toward goals and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, feedback from stakeholders and community members will be actively solicited to ensure ongoing engagement and responsiveness to evolving needs, ensuring continuous improvement and adaptability of the plan to Carterdale’s specific context.

Lessening Health Disparities and Improving Access to Community Services

The proposed disaster recovery plan for Carterdale is designed to reduce health disparities and enhance access to community services by incorporating principles of social justice and cultural sensitivity. The plan includes a thorough assessment of Carterdale’s vulnerabilities, considering factors such as population demographics, socioeconomic status, and past disaster experiences. It targets resources towards addressing underlying disparities in access to healthcare services and disaster preparedness education. Cultural sensitivity is prioritized throughout the plan’s implementation (Wu et al., 2022).

This involves recognizing and respecting the cultural beliefs, practices, and linguistic preferences of Carterdale residents. Efforts to enhance disaster preparedness and recovery will be tailored to accommodate diverse cultural norms and values, ensuring that all individuals and families feel supported in the process. The plan allocates resources and services in a manner that prioritizes communities with the greatest needs, thereby reducing health disparities. This includes ensuring equitable access to healthcare facilities, emergency response services, and mental health support resources across different neighborhoods and demographic groups within Carterdale (Gherardi et al., 2020).

Impact of Health and Governmental Policies on Disaster Recovery Efforts

Governmental policies such as The Stafford Act and Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) are some of the prominent laws that positively impact disaster recovery efforts. Enacted in 1988, the Stafford Act serves as the primary federal law governing disaster response and recovery in the United States. It provides the legal framework for the federal government to coordinate assistance and support to state and local governments in times of disaster.

The Stafford Act outlines the process for declaring a disaster, accessing federal funding for recovery efforts, and implementing various disaster assistance programs, such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance for individuals, public assistance for infrastructure repair, and hazard mitigation grants (Alcendor et al., 2024). The Act also establishes eligibility criteria, application procedures, and reporting requirements for disaster assistance, ensuring accountability and transparency in the allocation of resources.

Similarly, passed in 2018, the DRRA introduced several reforms aimed at improving disaster resilience, streamlining recovery processes, and enhancing accountability. Among the DRRA’s main features are financing for pre-disaster mitigation, grants to reduce risk, prioritization of proactive measures to improve community resilience, and financial aid to promote disaster recovery and mitigation efforts. Additionally, the DRRA emphasizes the importance of incorporating the latest science and technology into disaster planning and response. Additionally, this policy promotes enhancing coordination between federal, state, and local agencies to expedite recovery efforts and minimize bureaucratic delays (Rouhanizadeh et al., 2020).

Logical Policy Implications

The specific provisions of the Stafford Act, such as the provision of access to Federal assistance, hold significant implications for community members. Community members of Carterdale rely on the provision of access to federal assistance programs, such as housing assistance, disaster loans, and public infrastructure repair funding, to rebuild their lives and communities after a disaster (Greer & Trainor, 2021). Understanding the eligibility criteria and application procedures outlined in the Act is crucial for individuals seeking financial aid and support. Similarly, Provisions of the DRRA prioritize investments in pre-disaster mitigation and resilience-building efforts, encouraging communities to address underlying risks and vulnerabilities to future disasters proactively. Community members of Carterdale can leverage these provisions to advocate for and participate in mitigation projects aimed at reducing their exposure to hazards and enhancing their resilience to disasters (Rouhanizadeh et al., 2020).

Strategies to Overcome Communication Barriers and Enhance Collaboration

 Certain evidence-based strategies can enhance interprofessional collaboration and reduce communication obstacles in disaster recovery operations. These strategies, supported by relevant and trustworthy evidence, affect various stakeholders, including members of the disaster relief team, people, households, and neighborhoods.

• Leveraging technology and communication tools, such as mobile applications, social media platforms, and telecommunication systems, can facilitate real-time communication and information sharing among members of the disaster relief team. Studies have shown that the use of technology-enabled communication tools improves communication efficiency and coordination during disaster response operations (Hassounah et al., 2020). 
• Engaging community members in disaster recovery efforts and facilitating two-way communication channels for information sharing can enhance community resilience and participation. Studies have demonstrated that community engagement strategies, such as community meetings, focus groups, and public forums, promote trust, cooperation, and active involvement in disaster response and recovery activities (Geekiyanage et al., 2020). 

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

• Conducting interprofessional simulation exercises involving members of the disaster relief team from various disciplines, including healthcare, emergency management, and social services, can enhance teamwork and collaboration. Evidence suggests that interprofessional training programs and simulation exercises improve team dynamics, communication skills, and decision-making abilities in disaster settings (Fifolt et al., 2021).

Implementing these strategies will strengthen recovery efforts and improve outcomes for community members. These strategies have the potential to enhance communication effectiveness, streamline coordination processes, and promote community engagement. This ultimately contributes to more efficient and equitable disaster recovery efforts and promote resilience among community aggregates.

Conclusion

In summary, the proposed disaster recovery plan for Carterdale, Mississippi, utilizing the MAP-IT approach, is poised to mitigate health disparities. By mobilizing diverse stakeholders, conducting thorough assessments, and aligning strategies with principles of social justice and cultural sensitivity, the plan aims to address underlying vulnerabilities and promote community resilience. Furthermore, evidence-based strategies to overcome communication barriers and enhance interprofessional collaboration have been proposed, offering practical solutions to improve disaster recovery efforts. Overall, the plan represents a proactive and inclusive approach to disaster preparedness, fostering stakeholder collaboration to build a more resilient and equitable community for all residents.

References

American College Health Association. (2023). Map-It framework. Www.acha.org. https://www.acha.org/HealthyCampus/Map-It_Framework.aspx 

CDC. (n.d.). Healthy People 2020 Public Health. In CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/healthy_people/hp2020/hp2020_PHI_and_PREP_Progress_Review_Appendix.pdf 

Evans, R. G., Barer, M. L., & Marmor, T. R. (2021). Why are some people healthy and others not?: The determinants of health of populations. In Google Books. Walter de Gruyter GmbH & Co KG. https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=zIWtEAAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PR9&dq=determinants+of+health&ots=RhdSrIS-2z&sig=0roBSjm0CDSp5cqSmiUIOnoXKnY 

Fifolt, M., Brown, M., Kidd, E., Nabavi, M., Lee, H., & McCormick, L. C. (2021). Using interprofessional simulation to enhance student knowledge and promote collaborative practice in disaster management. Pedagogy in Health Promotion, 9(1), 237337992098757. https://doi.org/10.1177/2373379920987576

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

Geekiyanage, D., Fernando, T., & Keraminiyage, K. (2020). Assessing the state of the art in community engagement for participatory decision-making in disaster risk-sensitive urban development. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 51, 101847. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2020.101847 

Gherardi, S. A., Flinn, R. E., & Jaure, V. B. (2020). Trauma-Sensitive schools and social justice: A critical analysis. The Urban Review, 52. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11256-020-00553-3 

Greer, A., & Trainor, J. E. (2021). A system disconnected: Perspectives on post-disaster housing recovery policy and programs. Natural Hazards, 106(1), 303–326. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11069-020-04463-1 

Hassounah, M., Raheel, H., & Alhefzi, M. (2020). Digital response during COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia. Journal of Medical Internet Research, 22(9). https://doi.org/10.2196/19338 

10. Alcendor, D., Matthews- Juarez, P., Smoot, D., E.K. Hildreth, J., & D. Juarez, P. (2024). Ending of the COVID-19 related public and national health emergency declarations: Implications for medically underserved populations in Tennessee. Archives of Internal Medicine Research, 07(01). https://doi.org/10.26502/aimr.0164

Kleinman, D. V., Pronk, N., Gómez, C. A., Wrenn Gordon, G. L., Ochiai, E., Blakey, C., Johnson, A., & Brewer, K. H. (2021). Addressing health equity and social determinants of health through Healthy People 2030. Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, 27(6). https://doi.org/10.1097/phh.0000000000001297 #

NURS FPX 4060 Assessment 3 Disaster Recovery Plan

Riani, R., & Ikhwan, I. (2024). Early warning system and crisis management. Management and Sustainability, 2(2). https://doi.org/10.58968/ms.v2i2.409 

Rouhanizadeh, B., Kermanshachi, S., & Nipa, T. J. (2020). Exploratory analysis of barriers to effective post-disaster recovery. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 50(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2020.101735 

Safapour, E., Kermanshachi, S., & Pamidimukkala, A. (2021). Post-disaster recovery in urban and rural communities: Challenges and strategies. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 64, 102535. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2021.102535 

Weir, R. C., Proser, M., Jester, M., Li, V., Hood-Ronick, C. M., & Gurewich, D. (2020). Collecting social determinants of health data in the clinical setting: Findings from national PRAPARE implementation. Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, 31(2), 1018–1035. https://doi.org/10.1353/hpu.2020.0075 

Wu, H., Peek, L., Mathews, M. C., & Mattson, N. (2022). Cultural competence for hazards and disaster researchers: Framework and training module. Natural Hazards Review, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1061/(asce)nh.1527-6996.0000536