DMATs

Disaster Medical Assistance Teams, or DMATs, are groups of medical and support personnel organized to augment the Nation's medical capabilities during disasters. These teams are part of the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS), which is managed by the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. DMATs are typically composed of physicians, nurses, paramedics, veterinarians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals, as well as logistical and administrative support staff.

When a disaster strikes, DMATs can be deployed to affected areas to provide emergency medical care. Their primary mission includes assessing the medical needs of a disaster-stricken population, providing immediate medical treatment, and assisting in the management of patients. They can set up temporary medical facilities, provide medical support to overwhelmed local hospitals, and assist with patient evacuation if necessary. DMATs are designed to be self-sufficient, carrying their own medical supplies and equipment, and are capable of operating in austere environments where traditional healthcare infrastructure may be damaged or non-existent. The teams are trained to handle a variety of medical emergencies, including mass casualty incidents, infectious disease outbreaks, and public health crises. Their deployment is coordinated through federal, state, and local emergency management agencies.