Natural disaster management: experience of an academic institution after a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Ecuador

- Incidence of natural disasters is increasing; countries need disaster management plans ready to be implemented in the occurrence of these events.
- Academic institutions play a major role in the first response and relief efforts after a natural disaster.
- A disaster management plan from a physician-academic standpoint can guide other institutions, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
- Our disaster relief management plan includes a comprehensive team effort that was focused on 6 different areas and systems.

ObjectivesThis case study describes the implementation of an academic institution's disaster management plan.Study designCase study.MethodsUSFQ's Medical School developed a six-phase disaster relief plan consisting of: induction, establishing a base camp, crisis management and mental health aid, creation of multidisciplinary teams and multi-agency teams, and reconstruction. Each phase uses a community-oriented approach to foster survivor autonomy and recovery.ResultsOur methodology facilitated the successful implementation of multidisciplinary interventions to manage the earthquake's aftermath on the personal, community and regional levels, treated and prevented psychological and physical morbidity among survivors and promoted healthy living conditions and independence.ConclusionsA multidisciplinary response team that addresses medical needs, mental health, education, food, nutrition and sanitation is highly effective in contributing to timely, effective relief efforts. The short- and long-term solutions we describe could be applicable to other academic centres' interventions in future disaster scenarios around the world.

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