Research Priorities in Pediatric Disaster Medicine: A Consensus Overview

Overview

This consensus report outlines a national pediatric disaster medicine research agenda developed through a modified Delphi process involving multidisciplinary experts. It identifies critical research priorities across disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, recovery, and education to address the unique vulnerabilities of children in disasters.

Background

Natural disasters affect millions annually in the US, with children experiencing disproportionate physical, psychological, and developmental risks. Despite this, pediatric disaster medicine remains under-researched, lacking a unified research framework. The Pediatric Pandemic Network (PPN), in partnership with HRSA, convened experts to establish a strategic research agenda to guide future efforts in pediatric disaster preparedness and response. This agenda aims to improve ethical data collection, community engagement, and resilience for children facing disasters.

Data Highlights

A modified Delphi process was conducted from July 1 to July 17, 2024, involving subject matter experts from diverse sectors. Research questions were developed from a scoping review and categorized by disaster cycle stages: preparedness, mitigation and prevention, response, recovery, and education. Subtopics were rated on a 1-9 Likert scale, with median scores ≥7 indicating high priority. The process included anonymous surveys and structured group discussions to reach consensus on research priorities.

Key Findings

• Children face unique and heightened risks during disasters, necessitating specialized research focus.
• The pediatric disaster medicine research agenda was developed using a rigorous 3-stage modified Delphi process involving experts from healthcare, academia, government, and advocacy.
• Research priorities span the disaster cycle phases: preparedness, mitigation and prevention, response, recovery, and education.
• High-priority research subtopics were identified based on expert consensus with median importance ratings of 7 or higher.
• The agenda addresses gaps in ethical baseline data collection, community engagement, and resilience building specific to pediatric populations.
• The process and agenda align with federal frameworks such as the FEMA disaster cycle and incorporate education as a critical domain.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians and healthcare systems should integrate the identified research priorities to enhance pediatric disaster preparedness and response strategies. Emphasizing education and community engagement can improve resilience and outcomes for children affected by disasters. This agenda provides a structured framework to guide resource allocation and policy development in pediatric disaster medicine.

Conclusion

This consensus-driven research agenda establishes a foundational framework to guide pediatric disaster medicine research over the next decade. It highlights critical areas to improve disaster outcomes for children through focused, multidisciplinary efforts.

References

1. Pediatric Pandemic Network/HRSA/2024 -- Research Priorities in Pediatric Disaster Medicine: A Consensus Overview