CHEST Guidelines-Business-and-Continuity-of-Operations

Business-and-Continuity-of-Operations_chest

Pdf Summary

The "CHEST Consensus Statement" addresses the management of critical care during pandemics and disasters, identifying critical areas such as supply chain vulnerabilities and health information technology (IT) continuity. The task force highlights that disasters can disrupt supply chains and healthcare IT systems, impacting the delivery of medications and medical supplies and critical care services.<br /><br />A systematic literature review was conducted, but due to insufficient high-quality studies, the panel relied on expert opinion to develop 18 suggestions to mitigate these challenges. Key suggestions include securing multiple suppliers for crucial medications and supplies, tracking inventory electronically, and supporting government efforts to address supply chain vulnerabilities. Hospitals are advised to maintain higher inventories of items in shortage and establish protocols for substituting medications and supplies.<br /><br />In terms of IT continuity, the suggestions emphasize the importance of maintaining operational networks and energy supplies, even in austere hospital areas. Strategies include having mobile technology to identify patients, setting up secure networks, and rapidly transferring patient data using portable devices. Additionally, hospitals should prioritize IT resources to ensure essential functions can continue and safeguard patient data privacy.<br /><br />Long-term preparedness involves planning for extended disruptions in IT supplies and ensuring that patient information can be effectively managed and transferred as needed. The statement underscores that preparedness in both the supply chain and IT infrastructure will significantly enhance hospitals' and health systems' operational capabilities in crisis situations.<br /><br />This publication was supported by grants from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Health and Human Services, and the recommendations are endorsed by multiple critical care and healthcare organizations. The consensus statement serves as a strategic guide for healthcare professionals, administrators, and policymakers involved in disaster response and planning.

Keywords

pandemics

disasters

supply chain

healthcare IT

critical care

expert opinion

inventory management

IT continuity

patient data

preparedness