Kazim Ersin ALTINSOY, Gul Ozlem YILDIRIM, Mehmet Murat OKTAY, Erdal YAVUZ, Ilker AKBAS, Bektas SARI
Experimental and Applied Medical Science - 2026;7(2):124-139
Purpose: The February 6, 2023, Kahramanmaraş earthquake caused severe structural damage to hospitals and disrupted emergency healthcare services, underscoring the importance of well-prepared Hospital Disaster and Emergency Plans (HAPs). This study evaluated the experiences of emergency physicians, nurses, paramedics, and support staff in emergency departments (EDs) during and after the earthquake, focusing on hospital preparedness, disaster-response effectiveness, and infrastructure challenges. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, healthcare professionals working in EDs across six earthquake-affected provinces (Gaziantep, Adıyaman, Kahramanmaraş, Şanlıurfa, Kilis, and Malatya) completed an online survey assessing sociodemographic characteristics, presence at the hospital during and after the earthquake, perceived adequacy of disaster preparedness, implementation of HAP protocols, and infrastructure conditions. Results: A total of 189 healthcare professionals participated. Structural damage was reported in 76.2% of hospitals, yet 84.7% of respondents remained at or returned to their workplace. Only 46.0% reported that the HAP was implemented, and 69.3% were unaware of their hospital's designated disaster chairperson. Overall, 56.6% considered their hospital inadequately prepared, and 59.8% reported a lack of regular training and drills. Infrastructure problems were common: 39.7% experienced power outages, 50.3% heating problems, and 45.5% water shortages. Concern for family safety adversely affected patient-care focus in 60.3% of respondents. Conclusion: Significant gaps in hospital disaster preparedness were identified, including limited awareness of HAP protocols, insufficient training, and infrastructure vulnerabilities. Strengthening disaster-response plans, expanding staff training, and improving resource allocation are essential to enhance hospital resilience. Further research is needed to develop and validate standardized hospital disaster-management strategies.
