A National Blueprint for Biodefense: Leadership and Major Reform Needed to Optimize Efforts
Domestic Preparedness
October 31, 2015
This report, released by the bipartisan Blue Ribbon Study Panel on Biodefense, co-chaired by Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-CT) and former Governor and Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge (R-PA), details the
Rural Idaho - Research Tools & Training Exercises
Darin Letzring
October 28, 2015
Although there is no shortage of information, the quality and validity of information varies considerably. Learning how toentify effective information tools and use them to their full potential takes time. However, in ruralaho, information-gathering skills are being taught to help emergency planners and public health professionals to better navigate the vast World Wide Web of information.
Technology vs. Good Planning & Training
Steven P. Bucci
October 28, 2015
There is no single solution to cybersecurity concerns. Technology is advancing, but nothing can
replace solid planning and training. All three pillars are necessary to balance cyberthreats. If too
much emphasis is placed on one pillar, the vulnerability gap will expand. Ensuring the constant growth
and evolution of this trilogy is currently the best way to thwart threats that are ever evolving.
Technology Development & Science-Based Solutions
Rachel A. Bartholomew and Richard Ozanich
October 21, 2015
Science-based research is useful in analyzing and reducing risks through the development of new technologies for detecting, sampling, and studying various contaminants and unknown substances. Teams of scientists at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory play a large role in ensuring that first responders have the necessary tools to perform their critical tasks.
Modular Solutions for Compounding Pharmacies & Biosafety Facilities
Jessica Wambach Brown and Allan Swan
October 21, 2015
A decade after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast region, the effects of underprepared healthcare systems are still apparent. Nearly a year after the first case of Ebola was diagnosed on U.S. soil, the West African nations most affected by the disease remain burdened by insufficient infrastructure to properly isolate and treat patients on a large scale.
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases Innovative Technologies
Domestic Preparedness
October 21, 2015
Pathogens, diseases, and people move across borders. Infectious diseases constantly evolve. To advance the mission of reducing illness and death from infectious disease, the National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic
Maritime Critical Infrastructure Protection: DHS Needs to Enhance Efforts to Address Port Cybersecurity
Domestic Preparedness
October 19, 2015
The nation’s maritime ports handle more than $1.3 trillion in cargo each year. A disruption at any one of these ports could have a significant economic impact. This statement addresses:
The Continuing Battle Over Privacy vs. Security
Ellen C. Cornelius
October 14, 2015
In this electronic age, there is a constant struggle between sharing critical information and protecting individual privacy with adequate security to prevent data and documents from falling into the wrong hands. To address these concerns, expectations of privacy, knowledge of liabilities, and development of policies must be examined.
Improving Active Shooter/Hostile Event Response
Domestic Preparedness
October 13, 2015
This report documents the key findings of the March 2015 Active Shooter Summit. Summit participants identified 29 discrete recommendations for an integrated active shooter/hostile events response. This report condenses and
Public Health Service Agencies: Overview and Funding (FY2010-FY2016)
Domestic Preparedness
October 11, 2015
Within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), eight agencies are designated components of the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS). The PHS agencies are funded primarily with annual
