Checklist Framework for Surgical Education Disaster Plans

Abstract

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Disaster Preparedness in Dermatology Residency Programs

“…Role of the Program Director-The role of the program director is critical, serving as a figure of structure and reassurance. 4,7,10 Once concern of disaster arises, the program director should contact the Designated Institutional Official (DIO) to express concerns about possible disruptions to resident training. The DIO should then contact the ACGME within 10 days to report the disaster and submit a request for emergency (eg, pandemic) or extraordinary circumstances (eg, natural disaster) categorization.…”

“…If the threat is prolonged, programs may need to consider allowing current residents a longer duration of training despite potential overlap with incoming dermatology residents. 7…”

“…16 Programs should ensure an adequate supply of personal protective equipment to continue in-office appointments, vaccinations, and medical care if a resident or other members of the team are exposed to an infectious disease. 7 If in-person appointments are limited or impossible, telemedicine capabilities may still allow residents to meet program requirements. 7,10,15 However, reduced patient volume due to decreased elective visits or procedures may complicate the fulfillment of clinical requirements, which may need to be adjusted in the wake of a disaster.…”

“…7 If in-person appointments are limited or impossible, telemedicine capabilities may still allow residents to meet program requirements. 7,10,15 However, reduced patient volume due to decreased elective visits or procedures may complicate the fulfillment of clinical requirements, which may need to be adjusted in the wake of a disaster. 7 Use of Immunosuppressive Therapies-Residency programs should address the risks of prescribing immunosuppressive therapies (eg, biologics) during an infectious threat with their residents and encourage trainees to counsel patients on the importance of preventative measures to reduce risks for severe infection.…”

“…I n an age of changing climate and emerging global pandemics, the ability of residency programs to prepare for and adapt to potential disasters may be paramount in preserving the training of physicians. The current literature regarding residency program disaster preparedness, which focuses predominantly on hurricanes and COVID-19, [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8] is lacking in recommendations specific to dermatology residency programs. Likewise, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) guidelines 9 do not address dermatologyspecific concerns in disaster preparedness or response.…”