LAUSR

tion. Based on the Incident Command System (ICS) framework, our system prepares medical providers to respond independently to country level disasters. Background: Disaster response remains an important component of emergency preparedness internationally. To this end, the Incident Command System (ICS) provides a standardized approach to the command, control and coordination of emergency response. Methods: A two-day workshop was conducted with medical providers in Bangalore, India that used serial disaster simulations to improve disaster response using the Incident Command System (ICS). Through increasing responsibility and selfdirected tabletops, the participants (doctors, medical students, nurses and police) gained the skills to respond independently to a simulated countrywide disaster. After the exercise, they were asked to grade the usefulness of simulation and lectures. Results: Forty-four providers responded to the questionnaire, all of which (n = 44, 100%) recommended the course. They graded the final disaster drill as most useful (n= 36, 82%) and also graded lectures from topic experts as useful (n= 36, 83%). Based on qualitative written feedback, participants felt drills helped them in communication and leadership. Conclusion: This novel teaching modality, using simulation and tabletop drills is an effective tool to teach the Incident Command System (ICS) to medical providers. Participants felt they benefitted from training and would respond better to future disasters.