A questionnaire was sent to all local governments in Japan; 47 prefectures, 20 designated cities, 42 core cities, 8 ordinance-designated cities, 23 special wards, and 1649 municipalities. We asked about their preparedness for nutrition assistance, dispatch of administrative dietitians (ADs) to the affected areas of the Great East Japan Earthquake, and what kind of support municipalities want from ADs in prefectural health centers. The return rate was 71.1% (n=1272). The percentage of autonomies that dispatched ADs was significantly higher in those with past experience of large earthquakes. About 70% of autonomies required more information to promote the preparation of nutrition assistance in emergencies. Expected roles of ADs in prefectural health centers in normal times were to provide training and manuals or guidelines for municipalities, especially for those without ADs. During disaster times, ADs in prefectural health centers were expected to help municipalities within the jurisdiction to provide support activities for the residents affected by the disaster, contacting relevant organizations or other support groups. The system should be improved in order for ADs to engage in support activities soon after a disaster has occurred, with the full cooperation of other staff.

View full abstract