The BRACE Framework
The CDC's Building Resilience Against Climate Effects (BRACE) Framework
The Building Resilience Against Climate Effects (BRACE) framework is a five-step process that allows health officials to develop strategies and programs to help communities prepare for the health effects of climate change. Part of this effort involves incorporating complex atmospheric data and both short and long range climate projections into public health planning and response activities. Combining atmospheric data and projections with epidemiologic analysis allows health officials to more effectively anticipate, prepare for, and respond to a range of climate sensitive health impacts.
Five sequential steps comprise the BRACE Framework
The BRACE
FRAMEWORK
Step - 1
Anticipate Climate Impacts and Assess Vulnerabilities - Identify the scope of climate impacts, associated potential health outcomes, and populations and locations vulnerable to these health impacts.
Step - 2
Project the Disease Burden - Estimate or quantify the additional burden of health outcomes associated with climate change.
Step - 3
Assess Public Health Interventions - Identify the most suitable health interventions for the identified health impacts of greatest concern.
Step - 4
Develop and Implement a Climate and Health Adaptation Plan - Develop a written adaptation plan that is regularly updated. Disseminate and oversee implementation of the plan.
Step - 5
Evaluate Impact and Improve Quality of Activities - Evaluate the process. Determine the value of information attained and activities undertaken.