As aid efforts in the aftermath of the Maui wildfires turn to recovery and rescue, local organized medicine partners are deeply involved in assisting with the island’s health care needs and are sharing opportunities for medicine at large to do the same.
The Hawaii Medical Association (HMA) is working with the Hawaii Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii, among others, to lend their resources in coordination with state emergency efforts – a strategy HMA Executive Director Marc Alexander says is crucial.
“Currently, the Hawaii State Department of Health (DOH) very much wants to coordinate health services through DOH and these major systems. They have been overwhelmed with offers of help, so HMA continues to collect names of physician volunteers and organizations offering help, and sharing as appropriate through the chain of command,” he said in an email.
In that regard, HMA published a Maui Support webpage where you can find regularly updated information on the recovery efforts and areas of need, including specific instructions on how to sign up for physician volunteer opportunities.
Meanwhile, HMA physician leadership are in contact with Hawaii’s state leadership to assist as the need for volunteers arises.
“This level of disaster is something most of us here in Hawaii have not experienced before,” Mr. Alexander said. “The recovery from this disaster will be a marathon, with a current emphasis on shelter, food, and primary care.”
Last Updated On
August 21, 2023
Originally Published On
August 21, 2023
Amy Lynn Sorrel
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