To the Editor:

It is an honor to write this letter in support of the American Medical Association’s journal Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness.

Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath reminded the nation that we still have a long way to go to be prepared for disasters. This disaster in particular was a stark reminder of how impoverished communities and significant health disparities make preparedness planning so challenging. The need to identify and plan for vulnerable subgroups is vital because these populations are at higher risk and have unique needs that require special attention. This journal will ensure that these and other gaps are identified and filled. Disaster Medicine will be a platform for comprehensive dialogue that will only strengthen the local public health system and its private sector partnerships.

I congratulate the American Medical Association for the support they have given the American Public Health Association (APHA) in the past. Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness is an ideal vehicle for defining the science of disasters and public health emergencies for all public health workers who have a role and responsibility in protecting the health of a population.

Please accept APHA’s strong support for the inaugural issue and the many successful issues to follow.

Georges Benjamin, MD, FACP, FACEP (Emeritus)

Executive Director, American Public Health Association