Investigating the Awareness Level of Disaster Preparedness Among Healthcare Providers in the Ministry of Health Facilities in Saudi to Support Public Health Emergencies

Abstract

Background: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is vulnerable to natural and man-made disasters. The Ministry of Health (MOH) hospitals are always the first to respond to disasters. Having prepared healthcare providers across the country is vital for a successful response. Aim: studying the awareness level of disaster preparedness for the current healthcare providers across the country to improve response readiness and future emergency management. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sampling that included 140 MOH healthcare providers. Result: Based on the designated scale and out of the 140 MOH healthcare providers, the level of disaster preparedness was advanced for 88 participants, intermediate for 48 participants, and basic for 4 participants; the p-value of ANOVA test was 1.4. Conclusion: Education and training have to be required and ongoing, even if a majority of healthcare providers are aware of the necessity for disaster preparedness as shown in my study.