Caring for civilians during peace keeping missions: priorities and decisions.
Humanitarian assistance is increasingly being offered by the military in operations other than war. Balancing issues of resources, priorities, and security is important but complicated. Sometimes errors are made that are costly, either in terms of public relations, morale, or lives. Unfortunately, not enough education of physicians and other medical personnel is done prior to the mission, as to how to weigh these aspects. No absolute guidelines can be recommended, as each situation is different, but some examples and guidelines are presented.
Mental Health Policy and Women's Issues OSD/HA, Falls Church, VA 22041-3206, USA. elspeth.ritchie@ha.osd.mil
Hans-Ulrich
HU
Baer
Elspeth Cameron
EC
Ritchie
Robert
R
Mott
D003906:Developing Countries; D006801:Humans; D019300:Medical Errors; D008887:Military Medicine; D014481:United States; D014857:Warfare