Reframing Disaster Planning with Quality Improvement Methodology Using Family Reunification as a Case Study

Comprehensive planning for family reunification following a disaster is complex and often underdeveloped, especially in hospitals. The 2013 and subsequent 2021 National Pediatric Readiness Project revealed less than half of hospitals had disaster plans that addressed the needs of children. Leveraging quality improvement (QI) language and methodology allows for alignment and engagement of hospital leaders and personnel unaccustomed to disaster planning. We aimed to create a family reunification plan which would enable child-safe reunification within 4 hours of an event using quality improvement methodology. QI tools such as the fishbone diagram, key driver diagram, and process maps enhanced the planning process. We then utilized the Plan-Do-Study-Act model to test and revise our plan. Active involvement of key stakeholders was crucial. By using quality improvement methodology, hospital personnel unfamiliar with disaster management helped develop and improve our hospital's family reunification plan.