What is the main goal of 'evacuation planning' in healthcare settings?

The primary goal of evacuation planning in healthcare settings is to ensure the safety and continuity of care for patients, staff, and visitors during emergencies. Effective evacuation planning addresses how to safely relocate patients, especially those with mobility issues or medical needs, while maintaining access to necessary medical support. This planning includes assessing risks, establishing clear evacuation routes, and developing protocols to ensure that care continues without significant interruption during and after the evacuation process.

Focusing on safety means that the plan must account for various scenarios, including severe weather events, fires, or other emergencies that could threaten the facility. By prioritizing safety and the continuity of care, healthcare providers can minimize chaos and ensure that all patients receive the necessary attention even when evacuations are taking place.

In contrast, while the other options might relate to different aspects of emergency management, they do not encompass the overarching aim of evacuation planning in the same way. For instance, considerations like cost-effectiveness or securing facilities, while important, do not directly address the critical needs of patients during an evacuation situation.