SDMA organises workshop on disaster risk management in health care facilities

In light of the growing necessity for readiness in the face of natural disasters and emergencies, a comprehensive workshop focusing on Disaster Risk Management (DRM) in health care facilities is being organised here by the HP State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) in partnership with the State Institute of Health and Family Welfare (SIH&FW).  The workshop aims to equip health care professionals with essential skills and knowledge to mitigate risks and ensure the continuity of health care services during crisis.

The five day long workshop kicked off with an inaugural session chaired by Dr. Gopal Beri, Director of Health Services. He emphasized the need to bolster hospital’s resilience in the face of disasters and stressed the importance of implementing Disaster Management plans and preparedness. He directed all participating health officials to propagate a culture of safety following the completion of the training programme. He also emphasized integrating disaster management into hospital operations and curricula in collaboration with the HP State Disaster Management Authority.

Participants comprised faculty members and officials from the State Institute of Health & Family Welfare and the Regional Health & Family Welfare Training Centre, along with nodal officers for disaster management from Shimla, Solan, and Bilaspur districts.

During the workshop, attendees will delve into critical topics such as Healthcare Facility Preparedness Plan (HDMP), the role of health care administrators in disaster management, preparation of disaster management plans (DMP), supply chain and logistics management, and triage at health facilities during disasters. A field visit to healthcare facilities will provide firsthand insights into preparedness measures, followed by a simulation exercise involving earthquake, flood, or fire scenarios facilitated by experts from Fire and HP State Disaster Response Force (SDRF).

Sessions will also spotlight the use of technology for disaster preparedness, including remote sensing and GIS technology for disease surveillance. Moreover, discussions on maternal and newborn health during emergencies and child health will be led by experts from various organizations. The workshop will conclude with sessions on nutrition and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in disaster and emergency situations, followed by an After-Action Review and Lessons Learned.

The overarching goal of the workshop is to foster collaboration among health care professionals, disaster management authorities, and technology experts to construct resilient health care systems capable of effectively withstanding and responding to disasters and emergencies.