Question

As part of the hazard vulnerability assessment, the family practice clinic has noted a number of areas (earthquake, fire, infant abduction and bomb threats) in which their risk is moderate to high. The next step is to?

1) Identify cost related to decreasing risk
2) Increase staff education regarding risk
3) Assess preparedness for each risk element
4) Hire a consultant to advise clinic on reducing risk

Answer 1

The family practice clinic should next assess their preparedness for each identified risk element. This will determine how effectively current measures can mitigate these risks and guide subsequent steps for risk management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to the next steps a family practice clinic should take after identifying moderate to high risks in several areas as part of a hazard vulnerability assessment. The four options provided are identifying costs related to decreasing risk, increasing staff education regarding risk, assessing preparedness for each risk element, and hiring a consultant to advise the clinic on reducing risk.

From a health management perspective, the logical next step after identifying risks would be to assess preparedness for each risk element. This involves examining the current protocols and measures in place to handle such emergencies and determining how effectively these protocols can mitigate the identified risks. Proper preparedness assessment will guide the subsequent steps, which can include staff education, revising cost estimations, and potentially hiring consultants for specialized guidance.