Surgeons' Roles and Responsibilities in Disaster and Public Health Emergency Management—A Transition from Multitasking Surgeons to a Collaborative Surgical Approach

Abstract

AIM: Surgeons have historically played critical roles in disaster management, particularly as military and trauma specialists. However, the role of surgeons in disasters has changed over time, with advancements in medical knowledge and disaster response capabilities. Recent public health emergencies and global events have signaled a paradigm shift, emphasizing the necessity of cross-disciplinary, transdisciplinary, and multidisciplinary approaches. This shift calls for revisiting and reevaluating surgeons' roles and responsibilities.   

METHODS: In this narrative review, the literature concerning the roles and responsibilities of surgeons during disasters and public health emergencies was systematically searched and mapped. This streamlined process aimed to gather high-quality information typically found in a systematic review but within a shorter timeframe. The goal was to expedite the discovery of insights that could inform policy decisions or address urgent matters related to the study's topic. Furthermore, action research was performed to strengthen the paper's methodology, capture essential literature, and avoid missing important data.   

RESULTS: The results indicate a change in surgical specialty and a shift in the paradigm from multitasking surgeons to a multidisciplinary approach in surgical disaster management. Current educational initiatives are insufficient, and training opportunities are lacking, indicating the need for novel educational initiatives, simulation training, a collaborative surgical approach, and a reevaluation of the current curriculum.   

CONCLUSIONS: The study outcomes aim to guide future policy development and facilitate the creation of practical guidelines for disaster and public health emergency planners at local, regional, national, and international levels. Surgeons' future roles in disaster and public health emergency management will be characterized by innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to improving outcomes for affected populations, addressing the unique challenges of disasters, and strengthening healthcare systems globally.