Memorial was faced with many things that they were not prepared for, and had no idea what they were doing with a lot of it. I believe that this made the situation worse than it would have been if everyone was prepared for what was about to happen. Dr. Evens learned a lot throughout this whole thing, especially with making life or death decisions. The questions that are still being asked are, how much preparation will truly help? Would the hospital actually be able to perform in these situations?
The disaster planning for post Katrina should be set in place and made very clear, people should not be left with questions. After the hurricane there were changes being made like an ample amount of supplies available, and back up energy, so there isn’t a situation where the ventilators are unable to work properly. Being prepared could make a huge difference in a time like this. I don’t believe the AMA has set proper guidelines for things like this. They need to assure all hospitals are following these guidelines, and all the protocols.
Marylands approach to disaster planning had many advantages to support and help improve the hospitals, and health care workers. I believe they were trying their best to make sure the patients were provided with comfort, dignity and a peaceful environment. Fink believes that each individual’s values and beliefs may lead to different choices. Which I would have to agree with, not everyone will believe that the same thing is the correct thing to do. Medical decisions that are made during times like these are very complex and require a lot of things to make a decision.
The AMA provided a very thought out guidance and education to healthcare workers. They seemed to be very proud of all healthcare professionals who offered so much of themselves during this crisis. I believe that the justice system needs to consider each person and circumstance separately, and not just put a blanket out that falls over everyone. I think they need to do deeper thinking when it comes to what is right and what is wrong, and take everything into consideration.
I would have to agree with Roger Bernier when he states “I’m not sure we believe in a democracy in America”. I believe that all medical care should be given without any discrimination. Standards should be put in place. It should respect human rights and freedom. I don’t believe that we live in that type of place, we can be considered “free”, but are we actually? Or are we just more free than others?
I believe this story helps to explain to others what it is like during a crisis like this. It educates individuals on how they can make themselves better prepared, and protocols to follow during similar situations. No one knows exactly what to do in times like these, but with the proper knowledge it is easier to make educated decisions.