University of California Offers Video Podcasts on Disaster Preparedness

LOS ANGELES
The University of California television system has begun offering video podcasts of programs for health care professionals needing timely disaster preparedness information. Video podcasting, known as “vodcasting,” has emerged as an increasingly popular form of mobile media since Apple introduced the iPod video player last fall.

While much of the current vodcast content is geared towards entertainment or technology, UCTV has instead focused on developing content in education and public information, such as public health preparedness. According to officials with UCTV, the system chose the “Disaster Preparedness for the Healthcare Provider” series as its first foray into the medium because of its timeliness and the importance of having information accessible to health care professionals at any time or place. UCTV unveiled its new vodcasting service at the American Public Health Association conference in Philadelphia in December.

“Technology is moving so quickly and constantly pushing us to apply it in innovative and ultimately useful ways,” says UCTV’s director, Lynn Burnstan.

Vodcasts of “Disaster Preparedness for the Healthcare Provider” are available for free downloading onto iPod video players or other video capable personal digital assistants. Viewers can subscribe to UCTV’s vodcast and podcast feeds or download individual programs at no cost by visiting <www.uctv.tv/podcasts>.

The six-part series is sponsored by the California Preparedness Education Network and the UC-Davis Office of Continuing Medical Education.