Does one size fit all? The challenges of establishing a coordinating center for research of post-disaster needs assessment

Abstract

Needs assessment in the wake of disasters is most significant yet highly complex and challenging. Kessler et al. propose a comprehensive disaster mental health research model. This model has several significant advantages: (1) Pre-prepared plans and resources allow rapid deployment of skilled professionals; (2) Continuity will ensure that lessons learned from one disaster will be retained and used in subsequent disasters; (3) Standardization will provide a solid basis for evaluation and comparison across events; (4) Continuous monitoring of needs over time will enable the capture of a full range of responses including delayed effects; and (5) Will provide a valuable resource for researchers in the field. At the same time, there are a number of challenges that must be considered before the establishment and implementation of the proposed center and use of standardized measures. These challenges are associated with the observation that different disasters give rise to different problems and needs; there is considerable cultural variability; and differential power and agenda of stakeholders may result in a limiting 'tunnel vision' approach that may undermine new developments, creativity, and progress. Ways to overcome these challenges and difficulties that are involved in the implementation of such a model are suggested.