Mass Gathering Medicine

Book excerpt: Mass medical deployments to large events, such as music festivals or sporting events, are increasing in number, size, and complexity. This textbook provides guidance and direction for rational, effective, and practical medical management of mass gathering events for medical leaders. This is the first authoritative text on mass event medicine, filling a much-needed gap in a large and important area of the specialty. An international group of contributors introduce the specialty and cover topics such as general deployment, staffing, equipment, and resources, moving on to more complex issues such as the business aspect of mass gathering medicine and the legal implications. There are also practical chapters on specific types of events and adverse events such as terrorism, severe weather, and civil disobedience. An invaluable text for all healthcare professionals planning for and attending mass events, particularly EMS professionals, large event planners and administrators, and law enforcement and security personnel.