Articles

A preparedness plan in the health sector encompasses the national, regional, and municipal/local levels. At each level, depending on the degree of complexity of the health institutions involved, the plan assigns a team leader, or “emergency coordinator.” This person has the primary responsibility for coordinating activities within the scope of the authorities set out in the plan.

Coordination activities and mechanisms are fundamental parts of a plan, and must be established before a disaster occurs. This means establishing relationships with those responsible for different areas and activities, and being familiar with the capacities of each institution. Coordination requires harmonization and mutual understanding between different actors and institutions, all of whom are expected to act according to their respective capacities and authority.

No plan can be effective if human, natural, and financial resources are not in place for operation. A health disaster plan should take account resources in the sector’s institutions. A national disaster plan should also consider potential resources by civil society and international organizations that are active in the country and linked to the health sector.