Date of Award

Spring 4-5-2004

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

MS in Physician Assistant Studies (PA)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Terry Lewis

Second Advisor

Dawn B. Ludwig

Abstract

Bioterrorisrn has been a threat to many cultures around the world for centuries. The first record of their use dates back to 184 B.C. in a battle between Hannibal and King Eumenes of Peranum. Within the past five years, the concern over biological weapons and bioterrorism has greatly increased in the United States because of worldwide political dynamics. Is the United States prepared for a bioterrorism attack? Is Minnesota prepared for an attack? These are important questions, and many experts have not agreed upon the answers. Currently there is no industry standard for hospitals in regards to bioterrorisrn preparedness. Utilizing data from a survey of Minnesota hospitals conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health in 2002, this study compared rural and urban hospitals in Minnesota and their level of bioterrorisrn preparedness. From the data, no overall statistical difference was found between rural and urban hospitals. It became clear, however, that there existed a need for improved preparedness in all Minnesota hospitals. Additionally, there was a need for an industry standard for minimal preparedness and the resources to help hospitals attain and maintain that level of preparedness.

Identifier

SC 11.PAS.2004.Schotzko.LG

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