Hurricane Katrina: Medical Response at the Houston Astrodome/Reliant Center Complex

Abstract

On September 1, 2005, with only 12 hours notice, various collaborators established a medical facility--the Katrina Clinic--at the Astrodome/Reliant Center Complex in Houston. By the time the facility closed roughly two weeks later, the Katrina Clinic medical staff had seen over 11,000 of the estimated 27,000 Hurricane Katrina evacuees who sought shelter in the Complex. Herein, we describe the scope of this medical response, citing our major challenges, successes, and recommendations for conducting similar efforts in the future.

Disaster-Related Injuries and Illnesses Treated by American Red Cross Disaster Health Services During Hurricanes Gustav and Ike

“…17 Providing routine health maintenance care, including blood pressure checks, blood glucose checks, and prescription medication replacement are critical to the well-being of vulnerable populations most often affected by disasters, such as older adults, people with chronic disease(s), and people who are socioeconomically disadvantaged. [17][18][19][20] Similar to clients during Hurricane Katrina, many clients were referred to a higher level of care, including pharmacies, which suggests there are complex illnesses and needs seen in shelters, especially during mass care disasters. 17,18,21 For example, during this response, an evacuee from Louisiana with active tuberculosis was identified in triage (before entering a shelter) at a Mississippi shelter and was correctly referred to Louisiana public health for continuity of care.…”

“…[17][18][19][20] Similar to clients during Hurricane Katrina, many clients were referred to a higher level of care, including pharmacies, which suggests there are complex illnesses and needs seen in shelters, especially during mass care disasters. 17,18,21 For example, during this response, an evacuee from Louisiana with active tuberculosis was identified in triage (before entering a shelter) at a Mississippi shelter and was correctly referred to Louisiana public health for continuity of care. 22 Clearly, it is important that the Red Cross and other disaster response agencies (eg, Medical Reserve Corps) continue to roster qualified health services shelter personnel with triage and public health experience so that clients are properly assessed, treated, and referred.…”

Pediatric Triage and Allocation of Critical Care Resources During Disaster: Northwest Provider Opinion

“…1 Due to the low incidence of illness/injury, only five percent of US hospitals offer pediatric-specific care. 5 Most patients required simple interventions, but 50 were evacuated out of state for surgical or critical care. 3 In these settings, children are more vulnerable and often present for medical care in proportionally greater numbers than adults.…”

Synthesis of literature on strategies for chronic disease management post disasters

“…In addition, disaster conditions are very stressful and can tax the systems of individuals with chronic illness. Many deaths of older adults in shelters have been attributed to overwhelming stress (Gavagan et al. 2006, Millin et al 2006, Jhung et al 2007, Howe et al.…”