Association for Public Policy Analysis & Management

Novel respiratory pathogens such as SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV, and highly virulent pathogens such as avian influenza virus are potential respiratory pathogens that should be considered as pandemic-level risks in the 21^stcentury. These highly infectious viruses are unpredictable, could quickly infect millions of people in an extremely short period of time, and could lead to a worldwide pandemic emergency. When an infectious emergency happens, emergency department’ clinical staff are conventionally the first caretakers after emergency medical services are delivered to the affected victims. It is crucial that clinical staff be prepared, be equipped with the appropriate knowledge and skills, and be willing to respond. This is especially crucial formembers of the clinical staff of the Ebola regional treatment center since they are supposed to be able to deal fully with highly infectious diseases patients, including those afflicted with novel respiratory infections. This study reveal the potential gaps in preparedness of the ER clinicians and to help emergency planners work on an emergency plan that promotes a resilient and ready organization with a clinical staff that are able and willing to respond effectively to novel respiratory infectious emergencies.