Health system preparedness challenges before earthquakes based on the WHO framework: a qualitative study in the Iranian context

Preparedness is a key component of disaster management. One of the main responsibilities of the health system is to improve preparedness to respond effectively to disasters. This study identified the challenges of the Iranian health system before possible earthquakes in Tehran based on the WHO framework. Materials and Methods. For this qualitative study, in-depth and semis-structured interviews with 17 health experts and authorities were conducted. Purposive sampling was performed to select the participants. The data were analyzed using framework analysis. Results. The main themes were weak communication infrastructures, inappropriate assessment of specialized training courses and lack of a clear scenario, integrated urban commanding, extrasectoral coordination, and data banks for public volunteers. Conclusion. The Iranian Ministry of Health and Medical Education and other organizations that are responsible for disasters will not be able to play an effective role in managing disasters unless National Disaster Management Organization clarifies the roles they are to play when disasters strike through a roadmap at the national level.