Disaster Neurology Update: Focus on the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

In 2013, the term disaster neurology was introduced to describe a new practice opportunity for neurologists interested in providing needed, nonsurgical neurologic care in regions affected by natural or human-influenced disasters. Although previously presented as an option for interested neurologists, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has made it clear that every neurologist should be prepared to take on the unique challenges of disaster neurology. Examining the role of neurologists on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic response represents an opportunity to review and apply key features of disaster neurology, including recognizing the categories of neurologic cases expected to be seen during a disaster, adapting inpatient and outpatient workflows, and accommodating the needs of vulnerable populations. Relating principles of disaster neurology to the response of neurologists to the current pandemic informs best practices for neurologic care as COVID-19 cases continue to surge throughout the United States and abroad.