Number: RL33579
Title: The Public Health and Medical Response to Disasters: Federal Authority and Funding
Authors: Sarah A. Lister, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: This report examines (1) the authorities and coordinating mechanisms of the President and the Secretary of HHS in providing routine assistance, and assistance pursuant to emergency or major disaster declarations and/or public health emergency determinations; (2) mechanisms to assure a coordinated federal response to public health and medical emergencies, and overlaps or gaps in agency responsibilities; and (3) existing mechanisms, potential gaps, and proposals for financing the costs of a response to public health and medical emergencies. A listing of federal public health emergency authorities is provided in the Appendix.
Pages: 37
Date: August 1, 2008