In an era where uncertainty is a constant companion, the need for robust disaster preparedness in healthcare systems has never been more crucial. The recent study conducted by Nakhaeipour, Yazdanirad, Ebrahimi, and their team sheds light on the essential indicators of hospital resilience, particularly within the context of Iranian public hospitals. With global events showcasing the vulnerabilities of health infrastructures, this research adopts a sophisticated fuzzy Delphi–AHP approach, promising a dynamic framework for evaluating hospital resilience.
The rising frequency and intensity of disasters, ranging from natural calamities to pandemics, have put healthcare systems to the test worldwide. Hospitals, as frontline warriors in these crises, must not only respond effectively to immediate threats but also build resilience to withstand future challenges. Resilience, in this context, is defined as the ability of hospitals to prepare for, respond to, recover from, and adapt to adverse events. This study amplifies the dialogue around how hospitals can be better equipped to handle emergencies, thus saving lives and sustaining healthcare delivery.
Central to the research is the identification and prioritization of resilience indicators that can guide hospitals in enhancing their preparedness. The fuzzy Delphi method offers a structured yet flexible approach, allowing for expert opinions to merge into actionable insights while accounting for uncertainty inherent in subjective judgments. This methodological framework is particularly effective in deriving consensus in complex scenarios where quantitative data may be sparse or unreliable.
In the context of Iranian public hospitals, the researchers have meticulously gathered insights from healthcare professionals across various sectors. They focused on existing frameworks and tailored a set of indicators that resonate with local needs while aligning with global best practices. The resulting indicators encompass a spectrum of considerations, from logistical preparedness and resource allocation to psychological readiness and community engagement.
One of the significant findings of this study emphasizes the need for a multi-dimensional assessment of hospital resilience. It is not sufficient to only gauge physical infrastructure or equipment; emotional and psychological preparedness of medical staff, patient communication strategies, and community involvement are equally pivotal. This holistic view promotes a culture of resilience that extends beyond mere survival, encouraging facilities to maintain functions and mitigate chaos during crises.
Furthermore, the research highlights the role of leadership and governance in fostering resilience within hospital systems. Strong leadership that encourages a culture of preparedness and adaptability is vital in ensuring that health facilities can pivot quickly in the face of adversity. The study sheds light on the fact that while resources are essential, the attitude of the workforce and organizational ethos also significantly impact a hospital’s ability to manage disasters.
Through the fuzzy Delphi–AHP approach, the researchers have mapped out a series of resilience indicators, ranking them by priority based on expert consensus. These indicators serve not just as a checklist for disaster preparedness, but rather as a strategic toolkit that healthcare administrators can use to strengthen their policies and operational procedures. This innovative approach could well be a game changer in how hospitals worldwide prepare for and respond to crises.
Moreover, the emphasis on training and simulation exercises as part of resilience strategy cannot be understated. Hospitals are increasingly adopting simulation-based training programs to prepare staff for emergency situations. By creating realistic scenarios and engaging staff in mock drills, hospitals can foster an environment where preparedness becomes second nature. This proactive strategy enhances the confidence of medical personnel, ultimately leading to better outcomes during real-life disasters.
Importantly, the study recognizes the interconnectedness of hospitals with their surrounding communities. Effective disaster response relies not only on the capabilities of individual hospitals but also on the strength of the healthcare networks that interlink them. By building collaborative partnerships with community organizations and local governments, hospitals can extend their reach beyond their walls and improve overall community resilience.
Adopting these resilience indicators is more than just an operational improvement; it is a pressing health imperative. As the world continues to grapple with the ramifications of disasters, the ability of hospitals to adapt and thrive in crisis situations can dictate a nation’s health trajectory. The insights garnered from this research offer a pathway for Iranian public hospitals and provide a template that could resonate on a global scale.
The implications of this study extend beyond theoretical frameworks; they urge policymakers, healthcare executives, and practitioners to take tangible actions. By investing in resilience, hospitals can not only safeguard themselves but also the health and well-being of the populations they serve. As we look towards the future, the lessons learned from this study can transform the approach to hospital preparedness, creating systems that are not just reactive but inherently resilient.
In summary, Nakhaeipour, Yazdanirad, Ebrahimi, and their colleagues have provided valuable insights into the prioritization of hospital resilience indicators, emphasizing the necessity of a structured yet adaptable approach. As healthcare systems globally prepare for inevitable challenges, the methodologies and findings of this research represent a significant step toward developing robust and resilient hospital infrastructures.
Embracing the call for enhanced preparedness, the medical community has a unique opportunity to reshape the narrative around disaster management. By integrating these resilience indicators into everyday practice, hospitals can not only weather the storm but emerge stronger and more effective, ultimately saving countless lives in the process.
Subject of Research: Hospital resilience indicators for disaster preparedness in Iranian public hospitals.
Article Title: Prioritization of hospital resilience indicators for disaster preparedness: a fuzzy Delphi–AHP approach in Iranian public hospitals.
Article References: Nakhaeipour, M., Yazdanirad, S., Ebrahimi, H. et al. Prioritization of hospital resilience indicators for disaster preparedness: a fuzzy Delphi–AHP approach in Iranian public hospitals. BMC Health Serv Res 25, 1554 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13729-y
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13729-y
Keywords: Hospital resilience, disaster preparedness, fuzzy Delphi method, AHP approach, Iranian public hospitals.
