The Specialist Certificate in Disaster Health Management is the first program of its kind in Australia, providing an evidence-based introduction to the key elements of this specialty.

 

Disaster events are taking place with increasing frequency across the globe. In Australia, we've faced severe floods, bushfires, mass casualty events such as thunderstorm asthma, and the impacts of a pandemic within a short period. Neighbouring countries in our region have dealt with earthquakes, cyclones, and disease outbreaks, including the devastating measles epidemic in the Pacific Islands. Globally, we are seeing a rise in conflict and the convergence of natural disasters with conflict, leading to mass population displacement in vulnerable communities.

 

The knowledge and experience of disaster medicine specialists is critical when it comes to managing such events in community and healthcare settings. Health practitioners, service managers and leaders must be prepared to respond quickly and decisively.

 

With a focus on the fundamentals of disaster response, the course will equip clinicians, first responders, health service managers, relevant agency staff and policy makers with essential skills to effectively prepare for, and manage, a range of disaster events.