Workplace Violence

Violence against US health care workers has been rising for the last decade, and reports of such incidents have increased during the pandemic. 

Navigating Attacks Against Health Care Workers in the COVID-19 Era: April 2021 

Trends, Policies, and Protocols Related to Healthcare Workplace Violence

C.A.R.E. Training: Collaborate, Assess, Respond, Emerge

Join us in-person to observe and participate in reality-based scenarios to learn how to keep yourself, and fellow co-workers, safe during a confrontation.

Register here >>>

Disasters and Health: Pediatrics

Children are vulnerable to poor health outcomes during and after disasters. The American Academy of Pediatrics has compiled a Disaster Preparedness and Response Topical Collection for primary care providers. 

When exposed to traumatic events, children and youth are at risk of developing behavioral health disorders such as PTSD, depression, and acute stress disorder.  View the SAMHSA Supplemental Research Bulletin >>>

Disasters and Health: Extreme Weather

Climate change and extreme weather events are associated with worsening anxiety, depression, aggressive behavior, substance misuse, and increased suicide. View more information from the American Psychiatric Association >>>

A 2022 study found that increased summer nighttime temperatures are associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease mortality in men. View the study >>>

HHS recently launched an initiative to protect people's health from severe weather events. The publication series connects weather forecasts with topical resource information to guide individuals in reducing health risks.

View the Climate and Health Outlook >>>

Disasters and Health: Pharmacy

Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP)

For people without health insurance in a federally-identified disaster area, EPAP allows enrolled pharmacies to process claims for prescription drugs, vaccinations, medical supplies, and equipment. While EPAP is activated, individuals can receive a 30-day supply of covered drugs and medical supplies that can be renewed every 30 days.

• Learn more about the EPAP >>>

Disaster Planning Resources

Pharmaceutical-related challenges can arise during and after a disaster. The HHS Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has compiled pharmacy resources to help with emergency situation planning, including preparing for shortages and the role of pharmacists in disaster response. 

• View the resource compilation >>>

Disasters and Health: Patient Resources

Everyone should be prepared for emergencies. The American Red Cross provides guidance on survival kits and emergency planning for people of all ages and abilities at https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies.html. 

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters. This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service is available to all residents in the United States. Call or text 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor.

• Visit the website for information on multilingual services >>>