The role of physical therapists in disaster management

This report highlights the need for physical therapist involvement in disaster management and particularly in emergency medical teams (EMTs). It outlines in separate sections the three phases of disaster management most relevant to physical therapists: preparedness, response, recovery. Each section includes information on the role of physical therapists and details, guidelines and resources to support practice in disaster management.

According to the report, physical therapists should be considered central to disaster management, and an intrinsic part of planning for and responding to events such as earthquakes and floods. It points to the need for high quality rehabilitation after disasters. But it also emphasises that the role of physical therapists is not limited to direct provision of rehabilitation. It embraces preparedness and recovery and can include assessment, coordination, psycho-social support and advocacy.