Significant gaps remain in physician preparedness for public health emergencies, as well as in related training and participation in institutional activities. New efforts, with a focus on possible collaborations between public health institutions and health system leaders combined with effective use of online resources, are needed to bring more physicians on board and to develop relevant and useful key tools. New approaches, including those that rely on different types of care providers, may be needed to enhance patient education regarding emergency preparedness.

The Eastside Illicit Drinkers Group for Education has been supportive of research dedicated to establishing the effectiveness of Managed Alcohol Programs since its inception. Dedicated funding for MAPs in Vancouver, British Columbia is contingent on the research demonstrating that alcohol-related harms are reduced while participating in a Managed Alcohol Program. The Eastside Illicit Drinkers Group for Education understands the need for evidence-based research but we are critical of how much research is needed before sustainable funding can be established for these innovative programs.