Abstract
A method for emergency supplies of ostomy appliances in case of disasters and the coordination with the relief activities
We are hereby proud to present the result of our successful involvement in emergency supplies of ostomy appliances in Niigata Pref., Japan, which was hit by two major earthquakes in 2004 (Chuetsu Earthquake) and 2007 (Chuetsu Offshore Earthquake).
In some of the areas most severely damaged by the quakes, the disrupted transportation systems inhibited the shipping of ostomy appliances by transportation companies. Thus the volunteers including the author of this document participated in relief supply activity to examine the damage to the traffic systems and to deliver the relief supplies to ostomates (to 36 ostomates in 2004, 13 ostomates in 2007) We evaluated this activity as it contributed to assisting the ostomates mentally as well if not only physically. and reviewed the importance of such activities for a contingency as a "safety net".
The result of our evaluation suggests that the activity should be effective as a method of relief supply in such disasters at a regional scale.
