By Osedebamen Akpede
“We cannot stop natural disasters but arm ourselves with knowledge; so many lives wouldn’t have to be lost if there was enough disaster preparedness – Petra Nemcova.
Disaster preparedness and response are critical components of public health, particularly in vulnerable communities that often bear the brunt of natural and artificial disasters. Enhancing healthcare policy and compliance frameworks is essential to ensure these communities are adequately protected and recover swiftly from such events.
One of the primary steps in improving disaster preparedness is to develop comprehensive healthcare policies that address the unique needs of vulnerable populations. These policies should include socioeconomic status, geographic location, and health disparities. For instance, policies should ensure that healthcare facilities in vulnerable areas are well-equipped and staffed to handle an influx of patients during a disaster. This includes having sufficient medical supplies, emergency power sources, and trained personnel who can provide immediate care.
From my analysis, there are well-developed countries with proper materials and infrastructures that are well-tailored to stand correctly when a disaster occurs. However, some countries also need to gain adequate knowledge of how to act when disaster strikes. Most of these countries must adequately equip themselves with the proper knowledge or information when disaster strikes. From my observation also, the world is changing; the climate in our world today is not as stable as it used to be. Any slight change in our climate brings results that affect our planet and even areas that are not vulnerable to disaster. With this, everyone should know what to deal with when disaster strikes, especially those in underdeveloped societies or communities. Proper education, information on our countries and regions and how climate change can change our lives should be taught and implemented in these underdeveloped communities. We can never stop disasters or climate change, but we can slow it down with the right approach. While I was serving my country during my one-year compulsory youth service in Nigeria, I was privileged to undergo some training with the Nigerian Red Cross on CPR training and other beneficial health care services; I can testify that the knowledge inbuilt in me has followed me in my life’s endeavours, as I have come into situations where I have to implement my learnt knowledge; and they have proved very beneficial.
Another critical aspect to delve into is the implementation of robust compliance frameworks. These frameworks should enforce standards and protocols that healthcare providers must follow to ensure disaster readiness and effective response. Compliance frameworks can include regular drills and simulations to test the preparedness of healthcare facilities and continuous education and training programs for healthcare workers. Additionally, compliance measures should ensure that healthcare providers have contingency plans, such as backup communication systems and partnerships with other healthcare facilities for resource sharing.
Collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector enhances disaster preparedness and response. Policies should promote partnerships that leverage the strengths and resources of each sector. For example, the Red Cross can be crucial in providing emergency relief and support services, while private companies can contribute through donations and logistical support. These donations play a significant role in helping to provide for low-income communities; one such project I was privileged to be involved in was a tiny project as an undergraduate student, where my rotary club at that time was able to raise money for struggling orphanage homes and some low-income comminutes. I learnt a great deal about how helpful donations can genuinely change people’s lives, especially for other organizations that have collaborated to help humanity or people trying to donate. Such collaborations can lead to more efficient and coordinated responses, ultimately reducing the impact of disasters on vulnerable communities.
In conclusion, enhancing healthcare policy and compliance frameworks is essential for improving disaster preparedness and response in vulnerable communities. By developing inclusive policies, implementing robust compliance measures, and fostering collaborations, we can ensure these communities are better equipped to handle disasters and recover quickly. This comprehensive approach protects public health and strengthens vulnerable populations’ resilience against future disasters.
We learn from every natural disaster. Whether it’s a fire or a flood, we learn something from it to respond to the next one better. – Malcolm Turnbull
About the Author – Osedebamen Akpede
Osedebamen is a dedicated writer, poet and lawyer in Nigeria with a master’s degree in law. Currently pursuing a new journey in Health, she seamlessly blends her passion for helping people with her professional pursuits. A true advocate of selflessness, Osedebamen goes above and beyond for those around her, embodying compassion and care in everything she does. When she isn’t immersed in her studies or writing, she finds peace and inspiration in nature, often appreciating its calming beauty. Osedebamen’s unique blend of expertise and genuine empathy makes her a standout in every field she touches.