Preparedness of Earthquake Assessment in Alborz University of Medical Sciences: Turning Threats into Opportunities

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department of Medical Emergencies, School of Nursing Social Determinants of Health Research Center Alborz University of Medical Sciences

2 Department of Health in Emergencies and Disasters, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid-Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,

3 Educational Institute, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Alborz, Iran

4 Assistant Professor of Health in Disasters and Emergencies Department of Medical Emergencies, School of Nursing Alborz University of Medical Sciences

10.30476/jhmi.2025.107486.1288

Abstract

Introduction: Since educational institutions are vital infrastructure, it is crucial that they
be adequately equipped to withstand natural disasters. The goal of the current study was to
evaluate and examine how prepared a higher education institution was for earthquakes.
Methods: In order to evaluate a higher education center’s level of earthquake preparedness,
a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was carried out in 2022. Strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis was carried out after data was gathered using
a preparedness assessment checklist designed specifically for higher education institutions.
Two categories of internal and external factors were then identified.
Results: The earthquake preparedness level was assessed to be 64.5% on average. Among
the various dimensions evaluated, the laboratory (84.16%) and safety (80.22%) dimensions
showed the highest level of preparation, respectively.
Conclusion: It is highly recommended that a comprehensive national-level preparedness
tool should also be developed. In addition, measures such as budget allocation, incentive
programs, and legal requirements should be implemented to prepare educational structures
for potential earthquakes.

Highlights

Roohangiz Norouzinia (Google Scholar)

Zahra Eskandari (Google Scholar)

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Health Management & Information Science
Volume 12, Issue 3
July 2025
Pages 159-170

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