Planning for large events

Physicians are increasingly called upon to provide medical support for mass gatherings such as concerts, sporting events, political conventions, and other special events. Until recently, individuals planning such support have had little reliable information to assist them in determining what specific personnel and equipment are necessary to optimally support a mass gathering. Recently, the National Association of Emergency Medical Services Physicians established and published the most definitive and up-to-date document to assist a physician with planning medical care for a mass gathering: Mass Gathering Medical Care: The Medical Director's Checklist. As one of the most important developments in mass gathering medicine, this article highlights and discusses key areas of the document.