American journal of disaster medicine
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Despite an increasing reliance on outpatient clinics and other ambulatory care facilities, traditional hospitals play a crucial role in the US healthcare system. They provide emergency services on a walk-in basis and are staffed to address issues related to triage. In an era of heightened concern over bioterrorism and a potential influenza pandemic, hospital preparedness for responding to infectious disease outbreaks is essential. During such outbreaks, mental and behavioral health problems may constitute an important part of the demand placed on hospitals. There is now sufficient clinical experience regarding such problems, and tested recommendations are available for hospitals to implement in disaster planning and practice. ⋯ More research is needed to categorically examine the preparedness of hospitals for mental and behavioral health interventions during times of disaster.