Disaster Preparedness Among Medically Vulnerable Populations

Methods: BRFSS data were obtained for six states that implemented the optional general preparedness module from 2006 through 2008. Three dependent variables were analyzed, including presence of four preparedness items (i.e., food, water, flashlight, radio); emergency evacuation plan; and 3-day supply of medication. Primary independent variables included perceived health status, disability status, and number of chronic diseases. Data were analyzed in 2010 and accounted for BRFSS complex sampling design. Results: Respondents with fair/poor perceived health (OR0.76, 95% CI0.65, 0.89); a disability (activity limitation; OR0.81, 95% CI0.73, 0.90); and three or more chronic diseases (OR0.77, 95% CI0.58, 1.02) were less likely to have all four preparedness items than their healthier counterparts. However, all these groups were more likely to have a 3-day supply of medication than their healthier counterparts. Results varied for presence of an emergency evacuation plan. Conclusions: Vulnerable populations were generally less likely to have household preparedness