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Japan Medical Association's Actions in the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake
Author(s) -
Ishii Masami,
Nagata Takashi,
Aoki Katsuhito
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
world medical and health policy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.326
H-Index - 11
ISSN - 1948-4682
DOI - 10.2202/1948-4682.1210
Subject(s) - disaster response , health care , emergency response , disaster area , scale (ratio) , medical emergency , emergency management , business , medicine , forensic engineering , political science , geography , engineering , cartography , law , meteorology
A complex disaster struck eastern Japan on March 11, 2011. The Great Eastern Japan Earthquake consisted of a large‐scale earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident and resulted in extensive damage and loss of life. In response to the disaster, the Japan Medical Association (JMA) initiated the dispatch of disaster medical teams, JMATs, to affected areas through prefectural medical associations. JMA relief efforts did not end with coordinating JMAT operations: autopsies, medical supply transport, and advocating for healthcare for evacuees and survivors were other major efforts of the JMA following “3.11”. The JMA's healthcare support in Fukushima and other prefectures was unique and effective. However, the JMA recognizes the need for continued planning and preparation for disaster response and relief because of Japan's high risk for future disasters. Thus, current priorities of the JMA are the restoration of the healthcare system in disaster‐affected areas and preparation for future disasters.