Pre and Post September 11th Risk Perceptions and Education Related to Bioterrorism: Results from Two National Public Health Professional Assessment Surveys

Terri Rebmann, Brooke N. Shadel, Ryan Newkirk, Bruce W. Clements, Gregory Evans

Research output: Contribution to book or proceedingChapter

Abstract

Introduction: The threat of an US bioterrorism (BT) attack has escalated sharply following the events of September 11th and subsequent release of anthrax-laden letters.

Methods: A national needs assessment was conducted in fall, 2000 (pre 9/11) and repeated in winter 2001 (post 9/11). A 35-question survey was mailed to public health professionals (PHP) in local and state health departments. PHP's risk perception of BT in the US and in their community, proportion with BT education, barriers to receipt of education, and preferences for delivery of education were measured.

Results: Return rate was 34% (n=1215) pre 9/11; 37% (n=1143) post 9/11. Most PHP's, 82.2% pre 9/11 and 93.6% post 9/11, reported that they will seek BT education; primary barriers to education receipt were lack of training opportunities: 64.9% (n=37) and lack of dedicated training time: 21.1% (n=12). Preferred methods of education delivery: seminar/lecture at a professional meeting 44.7% (n=444), tabletop 41.7% (n=414), satellite teleconference 41% (n=407), and video 31.5% (n=313).

Conclusions: Although almost all PHP's feel that a BT attack is likely to occur somewhere in the US during the next 5 years, the majority do not believe it will affect their community; this perception was not significantly affected by the events of fall, 2001. The main barriers to receipt of education are lack of opportunities and time; educational initiatives and support for such need to be available. PHP-targeted education needs to be further developed and delivered in PHP-preferred formats. Future education materials based on these findings should enhance PHP preparedness.
Original languageAmerican English
Title of host publicationProceedings of the American Public Health Association Annual Meeting
StatePublished - Nov 15 2003

Disciplines

  • Public Health

Keywords

  • Bioterrorism
  • Education
  • National public health professional assessment surveys
  • Post
  • Pre
  • Results
  • Risk perceptions
  • September 11th

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