Modeling Bioterrorism and Disaster Preparedness

The author of the article identifies and analyses how the computer simulation could be useful to the public health officials in the determination of the most effective and efficient use of machinery, time, supplies, and staff. In the issue of methodology group and the SMDM, the author provides the recommendations for the reporting and design of the mathematical and the simulation models for the preparedness and evaluation of the disaster. This policy can be applied in the area of critical clinical and policy significance in the disaster preparedness internationally ( Sanders, 2009 ). These recommendations are based on the review of the quality of the currently existing models to provide a better solution for the development of future models. These recommendations imply that the health sector models be designed in a way that it accommodates the inputs of the stakeholders while they also reflects real-world problems. 

The second recommendation is that the model is designed in a way that ensures maximum usability by the response of planners. Many alternative models can be used within the clinical setting to enhance the reliability of the whole response system. Various models, such as the Microsoft Excel Workbook and Visual Basics, provide some of the best models to be used as alternatives ( Sanders , 2009). In the third recommendation, there is a need to have the models strike a balance between complexity and simplicity. While the details of the models need to be conveyed to the reader, there is a need to have them more detailed to provide a greater insight into the issue. Also, the right and appropriate outcome needs to be included beyond those that are considered for cost-effective analysis. There is a further need to use sensitivity analysis in the process of addressing the uncertainties in disaster modeling. 

Reference 

Sanders, G., (2009). Modeling Bioterrorism and Disaster Preparedness: SMDM’s Recommendations for Design and Reporting.  Medical decision making .