The role of primary health services centers in reduction of disasters risks

Abstracts of the National Congress on Health Care Preparedness for Disaster Management, 16-17 Feb 2009, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Lecture, p. 26. Published in Journal of Health Information Management, Special Issue No. 3- 2010

 Abstract:

Developing and less developed countries are more prone to disasters and accidents. More than 90% of deaths from natural disasters occur only in developing or less developed countries. Iran is also subject to a wide range of natural disasters and incidents. The effects of these disasters and their effects on health services, health, are at the head of disaster management. Dangers of disaster can be minimized by empowering local institutions and primary health centers. This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study that examines the role of basic health facilities before, during and after disasters by reviewing the library of the latest scientific literature. During the past decade, the earthquakes in Bam, Zarand, Lorestan and Golestan floods have been the biggest natural disasters in Iran, which have given serious attention to disaster management in the country. The health system of the country needs to strengthen the participation and coordination of the internal and external components of community-based activities and the integration of disaster management in the primary health care network. The primary health care network can play a major role in reducing disaster risk management through disaster management, due to the type of organization, coverage, accessibility and appropriate and balanced health and well-being. This requires advanced planning and implementation of proper implementation strategies. In this regard, the creation of strong institutions, in particular the strengthening and empowerment of staff and equipment of the primary health centers, will play an important role in reducing the risks of disasters and accidents.

Key words: Disasters, Primary Health care, Health centers, Iran