The Cluster Approach: A Study of a New Model of Disaster Response

Abstract

Background: The current models of disaster response focus on international collaboration and assistance. However, little is known about the disaster preparedness and response model of the Saudi health cluster.

Aims: This study aims to examine, in more detail, disaster response steps, and elaborates on the administrative structure, time frames, challenges, and recent lessons learned. 

Methods: We reviewed the current disaster response model of Saudi Arabia’s health cluster system. Pre-planning data were reviewed, and disaster contact personnel were contacted for further details. In addition, we relate a recent, actual code brown response to an electricity failure, including early activation and subsequent evacuation.

Result: Three main criteria for determining emergency response levels are bed capacity, the number of patients affected, and the event’s propensity for escalation. Five activation levels are already in place, ranging from local hospital disaster unit response to the involvement of national response led by the kingdom’s leader. Hospital readiness to receive evacuated patients was tested in a real scenario, and an uneventful evacuation was carried out to demonstrate the effectiveness of the cluster design.

Conclusion: Overall, the new disaster response model has overcome some reported challenges. However, several challenges still exist, and a degree of system evolution is expected.