Organizational Changes Needed in Disasters and Public Health Emergencies: A Qualitative Study among Managers at a Major Hospital

Abstract

Most hospitals have a contingency plan, based on all-risks and all-hazards assessment principles. However, emerging threats and risks often necessitate a flexible approach to emergency management at several levels of a disaster response system, for example, in hospitals. Sweden, and possibly other countries, has limited possibilities of surge capacity in the management of large-scale disasters and emergencies, which necessitates a local/national partnership and a flexible local disaster and contingency plan. This study evaluates the opinions of a selected managerial group, both at operative and strategic levels, regarding possible changes in a major hospital’s contingency plan during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Semistructured interviews were conducted to explore the elements of surge capacity and an operational tool, consisting of command and control, safety, communication, assessment, triage, treatment, and transport. The results show a need to create feasible management methods that can be evaluated, establish clear leadership, put preparedness as a constant point on the highest managerial agenda, improve external monitoring, and create a regional coordinating center. Furthermore, the results emphasize the significant role played by the incident command system and qualified leadership to facilitate competent and crucial medical decision making, as well as to provide reliable communication, collaboration, and coordination in a multi-agency response system during dynamic and unexpected emergencies. These steps enable a constant connection between reactive contingency plans and the proactivity in continuous risk assessment and enhance the flexibility of the contingency plans.

Incorporating simulation exercises using collaborative tools into disaster and emergency medicine curriculum—A pilot survey among Saudi Arabian professionals

“…As part of the educational program, disaster training has become the core of disaster education since it raises awareness regarding the randomness of natural disasters and the nature and dynamics of the required medical management (Algaali et al, 2015). It also enhances proactivity and substitutes the previously ‘lessons learned concepts’ in DM, allowing one to make mistakes in a safe environment with no harm to the affected population (Khorram‐Manesh et al, 2016; Wennman et al, 2022).…”

Beyond Boundaries: Addressing Climate Change, Violence, and Public Health

“…Their missions need to expand beyond the traditional confines to embrace a broader framework addressing the health, societal, and political ramifications of climate change, including the potential for climate-induced violence. 7 Specifically, this evolution might involve incorporating strategic planning and preventive measures against climate change-induced threats into emergency management. Proactive policy making, including legislation that promotes the use of renewable energy sources, the development of climate-resilient crops, and regulation of industries contributing to climate change, is crucial.…”