This conference played an important role in educating physicians about the dangers of medical disasters. For example, in recent years the threat of new epidemics and pandemics has occasionally created panic in nations around the world. With more people traveling today than in any other time in history, the danger of spreading diseases has greatly increased. When a new strain of a bacterial or viral disease erupts, knowing how to take immediate action could potentially save hundreds of lives. Medical professionals learn how to locate medication, when to immunize members of their communities and where to find the most up-to-date information about the spread of the disease.
Why Attending a WADEM Conference Matters
Many doctors and health professionals often find little time to increase their knowledge about emergency medical practice due to overloaded schedules. Unfortunately, when a disaster occurs, hospitals and medical offices are often overwhelmed with the additional patients seeking treatment. It becomes the responsibility of the doctor and staff members to immediately handle an emergency medical situation until additional aid can be found. If the staff and physicians are unprepared, lives may be at risk and an entire community may face harmful consequences.
By attending a WADEM conference, doctors and medical staff members gain an insight into the most proven and effective methods for handling national disasters. They are awarded the opportunity to interface with health professionals from around the world, many of whom have faced an actual crisis in the past few years. Medical journals and documented cases that describe disaster management are presented during the seminar. Physicians discover how treating a patient differs in a disaster situation versus a normal office type involvement.
How the WADEM Philosophy Helps the World
Many potential catastrophes have been avoided through the works of the World Association for Disasters and Emergency Medicine. Representatives from countries on every continent have attended the conferences and returned home to train other members of their team. By spreading the knowledge gained at these seminars, more doctors are prepared to handle emergencies in their own region.
In addition to sharing valuable insight with other physicians, medical emergency personnel become better trained. When a disaster occurs, for example, an earthquake, tsunami or flood, many countries find themselves understaffed to handle their community’s needs. Medical specialists from other regions are summoned and requested to provide skilled aid. The training gained through a WADEM program becomes a valuable tool during a natural disaster.
Every other year, WADEM orchestrates a world conference that allows medical professionals to learn valuable new information about medical disaster awareness. In May/June of 2011, the 17th world conference will be held in Beijing, China.