The American Red Cross: Seeking Local Medical Professionals

As the American Red Cross moves forward into the new year, we continue to prepare for emergencies that can happen anywhere to anyone at anytime. Every year the Red Cross responds to more than 70,000 disasters, including approximately 150 home fires every day. The American Red Cross is one of the world’s most renowned humanitarian organizations, and it relies on volunteers to help with the mission of providing care and comfort to those affected by disaster. The scope and magnitude of disasters has created a unique opportunity for medical professionals to provide services in new roles.

Traditionally, Red Cross medical volunteers support local hospital and emergency services response plans, extending the availability of medical services. This role is very effective when the disaster does not evacuate a large number of people remaining in their home locations or disrupt primary medical services. However, when large populations are being affected this way, a secondary disaster begins to occur in the safe evacuation locations. In addition, the displaced population overwhelms the community’s medical, infrastructure, transportation, waste, and security resources. Often, medical doctors from within the affected area may also find themselves evacuated and seeking shelter.

Medical doctors who are not affected or a part of the affected area’s emergency response elements can work with American Red Cross relief operations to provide triage units within Red Cross shelter facilities. Utilizing doctors’ experience in combination with Disaster Health Services (DHS) protocols could create a unique paradigm of “battle field” aid station triage providing major relief during critical evacuation.

There are many ways health professionals can lend their services to disaster relief operations. Red Cross DHS volunteers not only provide medical services, but mental health and crisis counseling situations as well. For example, DHS volunteers provide health assessments and referrals for care, and assist victims in obtaining essential medications or equipment. With the generosity of more doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals, the Red Cross will be able to provide better relief for the hosting community’s medical services while offering better quality living and safety situations to those affected by disasters.

The American Red Cross is now seeking local medical professionals to join us in our mission to provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to disasters. To learn about volunteer opportunities at your local American Red Cross, please visit SDARC.org or call (858) 309-1200.

The American Red Cross greatly appreciates the continued support from health professionals and looks forward to expanding these partnerships in the future.