Integration with national multisectoral mechanisms

In the Americas, all countries have a national risk management and disaster response system of a multisectoral nature, with a central coordinating central agency whose name varies from country to country: Civil Protection or Defense Agency, National Emergency Bureau or Commission, National Disaster Agency or Department, etc. These systems and agencies work jointly with all sectors and institutions, including the ministry of health and the entities within it.

It is important for the health sector to be well acquainted with these intersectoral bodies. The sector’s participation and coordination in processes related to risk management, preparedness, and response will not only benefit the work of the ministry of health, but the entire range of institutions responsible for emergency and disaster work.