Mass Medication Modeling in Response to Public Health Emergencies

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Mass Medication Modeling in Response to Public Health Emergencies
Outcomes of a Drive-thru Exercise.
http://www.jphmp.com/pt/re/jphmp/abstract.00124784-200701000-00003.htm;jsessionid=FVJMDH1NsN3bXl9DQylbyHyytnb0XQhd21nlPnJsMHftbtc6y11p!-2083468996!-949856145!8091!-1
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Article

Journal of Public Health Management & Practice. 13(1):7-15, January/February 2007.
Zerwekh, Tyler DrPH; McKnight, Jason MS; Hupert, Nathaniel MD, MPH; Wattson, Daniel BS; Hendrickson, Lisa MD, MPH; Lane, David PhD ​

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Abstract:

This article presents the outcomes of a full-scale training exercise utilizing a drive-thru clinic model for dispensing of Strategic National Stockpile medication.

The Hawaii Department of Health developed a clinic design for vehicles based on previous exercises and research on sample throughput rates. The streamlined model selected includes a triage area near the entrance and consecutive stations for the public to register, have an evaluation for drug contradictions, and receive the medication.

During the 2-hour exercise held in April 2005, a total of 622 patients were processed in their vehicles for an overall rate of 5.2 persons per minute.

Although patient services were reduced in comparison to current walk-in clinic models, the public was able to receive prophylactic medication in a timely manner with a high rate of accuracy and minimal human-to-human contact.

These results demonstrate that local health departments, particularly in rural areas, can provide essential medications, vaccinations, or rations through a drive-thru clinic, thus limiting morbidity and mortality during a public health emergency.

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(C) 2007 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc​