Disaster preparedness and education in the population covered by Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences health networks (DART program, 2020-2022)
Social Determinants of Health,
Vol. 12 (2026),
1 January 2026
,
Page 1-9
https://doi.org/10.22037/sdh.v12i1.50450
Abstract
Background: Disaster management strategies, including prevention, preparedness, response, recovery, effective resource coordination, timely decision-making, and strong communication, are crucial to lessening the effects of disasters and reducing the impact of catastrophic events. This study aims to evaluate the current status and level of preparedness among networks under the DART (Disaster Preparedness Assessment and Education) framework.
Methods: Statistical data for the years 1399–1401 (Persian calendar; approximately March 2020 to March 2023) were extracted from the Integrated Health System (SIB). We analyzed three key indicators: preparedness assessment coverage, education coverage, and average household preparedness for disasters. The data were processed using Excel software.
Results: All indicators showed an upward trend in the networks from 2020 to 2022. On average, 19.3% of households underwent a preparedness assessment, 6.9% received training, and 27.7% demonstrated household-level preparedness. In 2022, the highest level of preparedness was in Damavand (40%), while the lowest was in Qarchak (15%).
Conclusion: Although preparedness and training indicators improved over time, the overall level of preparedness (27.7%), while higher than the national average (12%), remains significantly lower than international benchmarks such as Japan (75%). These findings highlight the need for a thorough review of the guidelines, operational processes, and training content of the DART program to improve its effectiveness and match global standards.
- Crisis Management
- Disaster Preparedness
- Hazard
- Risk Assessment
How to Cite
References
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