Bioterrorism: Implications for Public Health

Overview

The use of biological agents to threaten or harm civilians on American soil is no longer a remote possibility. It is very real. The inaugural session of the Public Health Grand Rounds will feature presentations and discussions on bioterrorism and its implications for public health practitioners, organizations, and systems. Using actual examples of domestic biological threats and hypothetical scenarios as background, public health leaders will explore the potential impact of an act of bioterrorism on public health agencies, and the implications for the public health infrastructure.

Goal

To promote a leadership-level national dialogue on public health issues of strategic significance in responding to bioterrorism.

Objectives

Participants will:

  • Define the role of public health in preparing and reacting to bioterrorism.
  • Describe the roles of primary and specialty care providers, public health agencies, and managed care companies in responding to a bioterrorism incident.
  • Describe methods to promote preparation and planning, not panic, within their communities.
  • Identify the strengths and weaknesses in the public health infrastructure as they relate to our ability to respond to bioterrorism.

Target Audience

Health leaders, managers, and professionals from local and state health departments, hospitals, clinics, emergency management services, and managed care organizations are encouraged to attend this program.