In your opinion, could we effectively respond to a pandemic, terrorism or natural disaster?

Whether it is H1N1, an anthrax scare or a natural disaster such as an earthquake, all are frequent examples of what could potentially be harmful to the public. The RWJ report, Ready or Not: Protecting the Public’s Health from Diseases, Disasters, and Bioterrorism and the article, Emergency Preparedness examines the preparedness of our public health system. Such occurrences can no longer be considered something only witnessed in a science fiction movie, yet the report observes that funding for such scenarios are facing major cuts. Deficits in trained personnel, research and development, capacity to respond, and surveillance may be cause for concern.

In your opinion, could we effectively respond to a pandemic, terrorism or natural disaster?