Robyn Gershon

Clinical Professor of Epidemiology

Professional overview

Dr. Gershon is an interdisciplinary occupational and environmental health and safety researcher with extensive experience in the areas of disaster preparedness, healthcare safety, and risk assessment and management in high-risk work occupations. She earned her doctorate in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, School of Public Health, where she was on faculty for several years.  

Subsequently, Dr. Gershon was a Professor at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, with a joint appointment in the School of Nursing.

At the Mailman School, she also served as the Associate Dean for Research and was the Director of the Mentoring Program. Her most recent faculty appointment prior to joining NYU GPH was Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and the Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She was also an Adjunct Professor in the UCSF School of Nursing, as well as at UC Berkeley where she taught public health disaster courses.

Dr. Gershon and her team conducted numerous ground breaking studies to develop and test new metrics of preparedness. Importantly, Dr. Gershon’s work has influenced the adoption of safe work practices and regulatory control measures, such as national needlestick prevention guidelines and high-rise building fire safety laws. Her numerous research studies encompass a wide range of topics, including, (to name a few): bloodborne pathogen exposure; hospital safety climate; psychosocial work stress in law enforcement; “ability and willingness” of essential workforce employees to report to duty during natural and man-made disasters; preparedness of responders for terrorist incidents; emergency high–rise building evacuation- (including the World Trade Center Evacuation Study); emergency preparedness of the elderly and disabled; mass fatality management infrastructure in the US; adherence to emergency public health measures among the general public;  hearing loss risk in subway ridership; and noise exposure in urban populations.

Dr. Gershon recently completed a four-year, longitudinal intervention NIH-funded study on motivation and persistence in pursuing STEM research careers among underrepresented doctoral students. (the BRIDGE Project). 

As a committed advocate for junior faculty and graduate students, Dr. Gershon will play an active role in research mentorship and advisement. 

Education

BS, Medical Technology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT

MHS, Medical Microbiology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT

DrPH, Environmental and Occupational Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Honors and awards

Recipient, American Society of Safety Engineers, Membership Award, Oakland, CA (2016)

Recipient, John L. Ziegler Capstone Mentor Award, Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco (2015)

Recipient, City of New York Fire Commissioner's Special Commendation Certificate of Appreciation (2006)

Recipient, Survivors' Salute, World Trade Center Survivors' Network (2006)

Recipient, Annual International Sharps Injury Prevention Award (2005)

Delta Omega (Public Health) Honorary Society (1997)

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (Microbiology) (1976)

Lambda Tau Mu Honor Society (Laboratory Science) (1976)

Areas of research and study

Disaster Health

Disaster Impact and Recovery

Disaster Preparedness

Environmental Public Health Services

Epidemiology

Healthcare Safety

Occupational Health

Risk Assessment and Management

Publications

Publications

Protecting home health care workers : A challenge to pandemic influenza preparedness planning

Baron, S., McPhaul, K., Phillips, S., Gershon, R., & Lipscomb, J. (n.d.).

Publication year

2009

Journal title

American journal of public health

Volume

99

Issue

SUPPL. 2

Page(s)

S301-S307

10.2105/AJPH.2008.157339

Abstract

Abstract

The home health care sector is a critical element in a pandemic influenza emergency response. Roughly 85% of the 1.5 million workers delivering in-home care to 7.6 million clients are low-wage paraprofessionals, mostly women, and disproportionately members of racial and ethnic minorities. Home health care workers' ability and willingness to respond during a pandemic depends on appropriate communication, training, and adequate protections, including influenza vaccination and respiratory protection. Preparedness planning should also include support for child care and transportation and help home health care workers protect their income and access to health care. We summarize findings from a national stakeholder meeting, which highlighted the need to integrate home health care employers, workers, community advocates, and labor unions into the planning process.

Psychosocial Influences on Disaster Preparedness in San Francisco Recipients of Home Care

Gershon, R., Portacolone, E., Nwankwo, E. M., Zhi, Q., Qureshi, K. A., & Raveis, V. H. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Journal of Urban Health

Volume

94

Issue

5

Page(s)

606-618

10.1007/s11524-016-0104-3

Abstract

Abstract

Disasters disproportionately impact certain segments of the population, including children, pregnant women, people living with disabilities and chronic conditions and those who are underserved and under-resourced. One of the most vulnerable groups includes the community-dwelling elderly. Post-disaster analyses indicate that these individuals have higher risk of disaster-related morbidity and mortality. They also have suboptimal levels of disaster preparedness in terms of their ability to shelter-in-place or evacuate to a shelter. The reasons for this have not been well characterized, although impaired health, financial limitations, and social isolation are believed to act as barriers to preparedness as well as to adaptability to changes in the environment both during and in the immediate aftermath of disasters. In order to identify strategies that address barriers to preparedness, we recently conducted a qualitative study of 50 elderly home care recipients living in San Francisco. Data were collected during in-home, in-person interviews using a semi-structured interview guide that included psychosocial constructs based on the social cognitive preparedness model and a new 13-item preparedness checklist. The mean preparedness score was 4.74 (max 13, range 1–11, SD. 2.11). Over 60 % of the participants reported that they had not made back-up plans for caregiver assistance during times of crisis, 74 % had not made plans for transportation to a shelter, 56 % lacked a back-up plan for electrical equipment in case of power outages, and 44 % had not prepared an emergency contacts list—the most basic element of preparedness. Impairments, disabilities, and resource limitations served as barriers to preparedness. Cognitive processes that underlie motivation and intentions for preparedness behaviors were lacking. There were limitations with respect to critical awareness of hazards (saliency), self-efficacy, outcome expectancy, and perceived responsibility. There was also a lack of trust in response agencies and authorities and a limited sense of community. Participants wanted to be prepared and welcomed training, but physical limitations kept many of them home bound. Training of home care aides, the provision of needed resources, and improved community outreach may be helpful in improving disaster outcomes in this vulnerable segment of the population.

Psychosocial work stress in female funeral service parctitioners

Goldenhar, L. M., Gershon, R., Mueller, C., Karkashian, C., & Swanson, N. (n.d.).

Publication year

2001

Journal title

Equal Opportunities International

Page(s)

17-38

Abstract

Abstract

~

Public transportation : Advantages and challenges

Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

Journal of Urban Health

Volume

82

Issue

1

Page(s)

7-9

10.1093/jurban/jti003

Abstract

Abstract

~

Quality of graduate school life: do perceptions differ among majority/minority students?

Gershon, R., Gregory, L., Nwankwo, E. M., Zhi, Q., Ozer, E., & Estrada, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

Journal of cultural diversity

Abstract

Abstract

~

Quality of life of persons injured on 9/11 : Qualitative analysis from the world trade center health registry

Garagano, L. M., Gershon, R., & Brackbill, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

PLoS Currents

Volume

8

Issue

Disasters

10.1371/currents.dis.7c70f66c1e6c5f41b43c797cb2a04793

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: A number of studies published by the World Trade Center Health Registry (Registry) document the prevalence of injuries sustained by victims of the World Trade Center Disaster (WTCD) on 9/11. Injury occurrence during or in the immediate aftermath of this event has been shown to be a risk factor for long-term adverse physical and mental health status. More recent reports of ongoing physical health and mental health problems and overall poor quality of life among survivors led us to undertake this qualitative study to explore the long-term impact of having both disaster-related injuries and peri-event traumatic exposure on quality of life in disaster survivors.Methods: Semi-structured, in-depth individual telephone interviews were conducted with 33 Registry enrollees who reported being injured on 9/11/01. Topics included: extent and circumstance of the injury(ies), description of medical treatment for injury, current health and functional status, and lifestyle changes resulting from the WTCD. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and inductively open-coded for thematic analysis. Results: Six themes emerged with respect to long term recovery and quality of life: concurrent experience of injury with exposure to peri-event traumatic exposure (e.g., witnessing death or destruction, perceived life threat, etc.); sub-optimal quality and timeliness of short- and long-term medical care for the injury reported and mental health care; poor ongoing health status, functional limitations, and disabilities; adverse impact on lifestyle; lack of social support; and adverse economic impact. Many study participants, especially those reporting more serious injuries, also reported self-imposed social isolation, an inability to participate in or take enjoyment from previously enjoyable leisure and social activities and greatly diminished overall quality of life. Discussion: This study provided unique insight into the long-term impact of disasters on survivors. Long after physical injuries have healed, some injured disaster survivors report having serious health and mental health problems, economic problems due to loss of livelihood, limited sources of social support, and profound social isolation. Strategies for addressing the long-term health problems of disaster survivors are needed in order to support recovery.

Reports of intimate partner violence made against police officers

Erwin, M. J., Gershon, R., Tiburzi, M., & Lin, S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

Journal of Family Violence

Volume

20

Issue

1

Page(s)

13-19

10.1007/s10896-005-1505-3

Abstract

Abstract

The purpose of this case control study was to compare police officers (n = 106) from a large urban police force, charged with committing intimate partner violence (IPV) with officers who were not charged (n = 105), in order to identify risk factors for IPV. We also compared the frequency, type, and final disposition of IPV reports filed against police officers before and after the enactment of the 1994 Violence against Women Act (VAWA). Officers accused of IPV were more likely to be members of a minority, on the force more than 7 years and assigned to a high crime district. No major differences on intake baseline MMPI scores were noted between cases and controls. A significant increase in reports of IPV was noted after the enactment of VAWA; the rate changed from 0.2/100 to 1.2/100 person years, although there were too few pre-1994 reports to compare further. Most of the final dispositions of the cases resulted in cases closed due to unsupported testimony from victims.

Resilience to post-traumatic stress among World Trade Center survivors : A mixed-methods study

Gargano, L. M., Hosakote, S., Zhi, Q., Qureshi, K. A., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Journal of Emergency Management

Volume

15

Issue

5

Page(s)

275-284

10.5055/jem.2017.0336

Abstract

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify individual characteristics, behaviors, and psychosocial factors associated with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among World Trade Center (WTC) disaster evacuation survivors. The study utilized a mixed-method design. In-depth interviews were conducted using a prepared script. PTSD was assessed using the PTSD checklist-civilian (PCL-C; a score ≥ 50 indicates probable PTSD). Thematic analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with PTSD. A purposive sample of 29 WTC evacuees was recruited using a multimodal recruitment strategy. Eligibility included: history of evacuation from the WTC (Tower 1 and/or Tower 2) on September 11, 2001, and decisional capacity for informed consent. Five participants had PCL-C scores ≥ 50. Thematic analysis identified resiliency factors (protective for PTSD), including leadership, taking action based on “gut” feelings (to evacuate), social support (staying in a group), going on “automatic survival” mode, and previous training on emergency response. Risk factors for PTSD included lack of emergency response training, lack of sense of urgency, poor physical condition, lack of communication skills, lack of direction, peri-event physical injury, peri-event traumatic exposure (horror), and moral injury (guilt and remorse). Several modifiable factors that may confer resilience were identified. In particular, the role of emergency response training in preventing disaster-related mental illness should be explored as a possible strategy for enhancing resilience to disaster events.

Review of accidents/injuries among emergency medical service workers in Baltimore, Maryland

Gershon, R., Vlahov, D., Kelen, G. D., Conrad, B., & Murphy, L. (n.d.).

Publication year

1995

Journal title

Prehospital and Disaster Medicine

Page(s)

14

Abstract

Abstract

~

Risk of HIV-1 transmission in the workplace

Gershon, R., & Vlahov, D. (n.d.).

Publication year

1991

Abstract

Abstract

~

Risk of tuberculosis in correctional healthcare workers

Mitchell, C. S., Gershon, R., Lears, M. K., Vlahov, D., Felknor, S., Lubelczyk, R. A., Sherman, M. F., & Comstock, G. W. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

47

Issue

6

Page(s)

580-586

10.1097/01.jom.0000161738.88347.e4

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, incidence, and risk factors for occupational infection with tuberculosis among healthcare workers employed in correctional facilities. Methods: The authors conducted a self-administered survey, clinical interview, and tuberculin skin testing. Results: The overall tuberculin skin test point prevalence rate was 17.7%, the reactivity rate was 2.2%, and the annual incidence was 1.3%. At the multivariate level, after controlling for bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccination, only origin of birth remained significantly associated with prevalence of tuberculosis infection. Conclusions: Although the prevalence of tuberculin reactivity was high in this population, the risk factors were predominantly demographic rather than occupational. Nevertheless, continued vigilance to control occupational exposure to this and other respiratory pathogens is warranted, given the potential for future outbreaks of tuberculosis, as well as other known and emerging airborne pathogens.

Roadmap for the protection of disaster research participants : Findings from the world trade center evacuation study

Qureshi, K. A., Gershon, R., Smailes, E., Raveis, V. H., Murphy, B., Matzner, F., & Fleischman, A. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2007

Journal title

Prehospital and Disaster Medicine

Volume

22

Issue

6

Page(s)

486-493

10.1017/S1049023X00005306

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction: This report addresses the development, implementation, and evaluation of a protocol designed to protect participants from inadvertent emotional harm or further emotional trauma due to their participation in the World Trade Center Evacuation (WTCE) Study research project. This project was designed to identify the individual, organizational, and structural (environmental) factors associated with evacuation from the World Trade Center Towers 1 and 2 on 11 September 2001.Methods: Following published recommended practices for protecting potentially vulnerable disaster research participants, protective strategies and quality assurance processes were implemented and evaluated, including an assessment of the impact of participation on study subjects enrolled in the qualitative phase of the WTCE Study.Results: The implementation of a protocol designed to protect disaster study participants from further emotional trauma was feasible and effective in minimizing risk and monitoring for psychological injury associated with study participation. Conclusions: Details about this successful strategy provide a roadmap that can be applied in other post-disaster research investigations.

Role of labor unions in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic: results from a survey of union leaders

Gershon, R., Remes, J. A., & Hagen, D. (n.d.).

Abstract

Abstract

~

Safety climate dimensions associated with occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens in nurses

Grosch, J. W., Gershon, R., Murphy, L. R., & DeJoy, D. M. (n.d.).

Publication year

1999

Journal title

American Journal of Industrial Medicine

Volume

36

Issue

SUPPL. 1

Page(s)

122-124

10.1002/(sici)1097-0274(199909)36:1+<122::aid-ajim43>3.0.co;2-l

Abstract

Abstract

~

Safety climate in healthcare settings

DeJoy, D. M., Murphy, L. R., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

1995

Abstract

Abstract

~

Safety climate: assessing management and organizational influences on safety

DeJoy, D. M., Gershon, R., & Schaffer, B. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2004

Journal title

Professional safety

Abstract

Abstract

~

Safety factors predictive of job satisfaction and job retention among home healthcare aides

Sherman, M. F., Gershon, R., Samar, S. M., Pearson, J. M., Canton, A. N., & Damsky, M. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2008

Journal title

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

50

Issue

12

Page(s)

1430-1441

10.1097/JOM.0b013e31818a388e

Abstract

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Although many of the well known work characteristics associated with job satisfaction in home health care have been documented, a unique aspect of the home health care aides' (HHA) work environment that might also affect job satisfaction is the fact that their workplace is a household. To obtain a better understanding of the potential impact of the risks/exposures/hazards within the household environment on job satisfaction and job retention in home care, we recently conducted a risk assessment study. METHODS: Survey data from a convenience sample of 823 New York City HHAs were obtained and analyzed. RESULTS: Household/job-related risks, environmental exposures, transportation issues, threats/verbal and physical abuse, and potential for violence were significantly correlated with HHA job satisfaction and job retention. CONCLUSIONS: Addressing the modifiable risk factors in the home health care household may improve job satisfaction and reduce job turnover in this work population.

Safety in the clinical microbiology laboratory

Richardson, J., & Gershon, R. (n.d.). (2nd ed.).

Publication year

1993

Abstract

Abstract

~

Safety in the home healthcare sector : Development of a new household safety checklist

Gershon, R., Dailey, M., Magda, L. A., Riley, H. E., Conolly, J., & Silver, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2012

Journal title

Journal of Patient Safety

Volume

8

Issue

2

Page(s)

51-59

10.1097/PTS.0b013e31824a4ad6

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives: Unsafe household conditions could adversely affect safety and quality in home health care. However, risk identification tools and procedures that can be readily implemented in this setting are lacking. To address this need, we developed and tested a new household safety checklist and accompanying training program. Methods: A 50-item, photo-illustrated, multi-hazard checklist was designed as a tool to enable home healthcare paraprofessionals (HHCPs) to conduct visual safety inspections in patients' homes. The checklist focused on hazards presenting the greatest threat to the safety of seniors. A convenience sample of 57 HHCPs was recruited to participate in a 1-hour training program, followed by pilot testing of the checklist in their patients' households. Checklist data from 116 patient homes were summarized using descriptive statistics. Qualitative feedback on the inspection process was provided by HHCPs participating in a focus group. Results: Pretesting and posttesting determined that the training program was effective; participating HHCPs' ability to identify household hazards significantly improved after training (P < 0.001). Using the checklist, HHCPs were able to identify unsafe conditions, including fire safety deficiencies, fall hazards, unsanitary conditions, and problems with medication management. Home healthcare paraprofessionals reported that the checklist was easy to use and that inspections were well accepted by patients. Inspections took roughly 20 minutes to conduct. Conclusions: Home healthcare paraprofessionals can be effectively trained to identify commonplace household hazards. Using this checklist as a guide, visual household inspections were easily performed by trained HHCPS. Additional studies are needed to evaluate the reliability of the checklist and to determine if hazard identification leads to interventions that improve performance outcomes.

Self-reported Preparedness to Respond to Mass Fatality Incidents in 38 State Health Departments

Merrill, J., Zhi, Q., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Journal of Public Health Management and Practice

Volume

23

Issue

1

Page(s)

64-72

10.1097/PHH.0000000000000472

Abstract

Abstract

Context: Public health departments play an important role in the preparation and response to mass fatality incidents (MFIs). Objective: To describe MFI response capabilities of US state health departments. Design: The data are part of a multisector cross-sectional study aimed at 5 sectors that comprise the US mass fatality infrastructure. Data were collected over a 6-week period via a self-administered, anonymous Web-based survey. Setting: In 2014, a link to the survey was distributed via e-mail to health departments in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Participants: State health department representatives responsible for their state's MFI plans. Measures: Preparedness was assessed using 3 newly developed metrics: organizational capabilities (n = 19 items); operational capabilities (n = 19 items); and resource-sharing capabilities (n = 13 items). Results: Response rate was 75% (n = 38). Among 38 responses, 37 rated their workplace moderately or well prepared; 45% reported MFI training, but only 30% reported training on MFI with hazardous contaminants; 58% estimated high levels of staff willingness to respond, but that dropped to 40% if MFIs involved hazardous contaminants; and 84% reported a need for more training. On average, 76% of operational capabilities were present. Resource sharing was most prevalent with state Office of Emergency Management but less evident with faith-based organizations and agencies within the medical examiner sector. Conclusion: Overall response capability was adequate, with gaps found in capabilities where public health shares responsibility with other sectors. Collaborative training with other sectors is critical to ensure optimal response to future MFIs, but recent funding cuts in public health preparedness may adversely impact this critical preparedness element. In order for the sector to effectively meet its public health MFI responsibilities as delineated in the National Response Framework, resources to support training and other elements of preparedness must be maintained.

Sharps handling.

Gershon, R., & Gershon, R. R. (n.d.).

Publication year

1985

Journal title

Journal of healthcare materiel management

Volume

3

Issue

5

Page(s)

111-114

Abstract

Abstract

~

Street-level noise in an urban setting : Assessment and contribution to personal exposure

McAlexander, T. P., Gershon, R., & Neitzel, R. L. (n.d.).

Publication year

2015

Journal title

Environmental Health: A Global Access Science Source

Volume

14

Issue

1

10.1186/s12940-015-0006-y

Abstract

Abstract

Background: The urban soundscape, which represents the totality of noise in the urban setting, is formed from a wide range of sources. One of the most ubiquitous and least studied of these is street-level (i.e., sidewalk) noise. Mainly associated with vehicular traffic, street level noise is hard to ignore and hard to escape. It is also potentially dangerous, as excessive noise from any source is an important risk factor for adverse health effects. This study was conducted to better characterize the urban soundscape and the role of street level noise on overall personal noise exposure in an urban setting. Methods: Street-level noise measures were obtained at 99 street sites located throughout New York City (NYC), along with data on time, location, and sources of environmental noise. The relationship between street-level noise measures and potential predictors of noise was analyzed using linear and logistic regression models, and geospatial modeling was used to evaluate spatial trends in noise. Daily durations of street-level activities (time spent standing, sitting, walking and running on streets) were estimated via survey from a sample of NYC community members recruited at NYC street fairs. Street-level noise measurements were then combined with daily exposure durations for each member of the sample to estimate exposure to street noise, as well as exposure to other sources of noise. Results: The mean street noise level was 73.4 dBA, with substantial spatial variation (range 55.8-95.0 dBA). Density of vehicular (road) traffic was significantly associated with excessive street level noise levels. Exposure duration data for street-level noise and other common sources of noise were collected from 1894 NYC community members. Based on individual street-level exposure estimates, and in consideration of all other sources of noise exposure in an urban population, we estimated that street noise exposure contributes approximately 4% to an average individual's annual noise dose. Conclusions: Street-level noise exposure is a potentially important source of overall noise exposure, and the reduction of environmental sources of excessive street- level noise should be a priority for public health and urban planning.

Stress and occupational exposure to HIV/AIDS

Murphy, L. R., Gershon, R., & DeJoy, D. M. (n.d.).

Publication year

1996

Abstract

Abstract

~

TB control in the hospital environment.

Gershon, R., Gershon, R. R., McArthur, B. R., Early, E. T., & Grimes, M. J. (n.d.).

Publication year

1993

Journal title

Healthcare facilities management series

Page(s)

1-33

Abstract

Abstract

Tuberculosis is again on the rise in the United States. Several outbreaks of TB in hospitals have heightened interest in the development and use of mechanisms that prevent the spread of this airborne pathogen. Controlling the spread of TB to hospital patients, workers, and others can be accomplished through various administrative engineering and design controls, and infection control programs, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The hazard of TB is real, but workers, patients, and visitors can be protected by implementing programs that guard against the diseases spread in the hospital environment.

Temporal trends of COVID-19 infections in New York City transit workers during the onset of the pandemic

Cziner, M., Hawkins, D., Rosen, J., Merdjanoff, A. A., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Abstract

Abstract

Presented by PhD student Michael Cziner