Public Events: Medical Presence Not Enough, Preparation is Key for Saving Lives

• Dr. Shameem K. U. warns that medical preparedness at public events is "seriously inadequate," emphasizing preparation over intention for survival.
• A recent cardiac arrest at an Indian event highlighted the failure of planning, with no organized emergency response and bystander transport.
• Mass gatherings are high-risk; "medical presence does not equal medical readiness," as symbolic gestures offer comfort but lack capability.
• Cardiac arrest survival drops 7-10% every minute without CPR/defibrillation, underscoring the need for trained teams and equipment.
• Dr. Shameem K. U. calls for mandatory national norms, including risk assessments, staffing, AEDs, and accountability, to ensure public safety.

Why It Matters: Mandatory, comprehensive medical preparedness, not just symbolic presence, is crucial for public event safety.