Article

With increasing frequency of natural disasters, there has been greater focus
recently on the importance and role of rehabilitation services in disaster
management. In past disasters, rehabilitative needs were often neglected, with
emphasis on acute response plans focused on saving lives and treating acute
injuries. There was a lack of, or inadequate, rehabilitation-inclusive disaster
response plans and rehabilitation services in many disaster-prone developing
countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Medical Team (EMT)
initiative recognizes rehabilitation as an integral part of medical response and
patient-centred care in disaster settings. Current developments under this
initiative include: the development of minimum standards for rehabilitation in
emergencies to allow rapid, professional, coordinated medical response by both
national and international EMTs. These guidelines ensure that EMTs deliver
effective and coordinated patient care during disasters and continuum of care
beyond their departure. The aim is to strengthen national capacity, foster an
environment of self-empowerment of EMTs and local health services, and work in
rehabilitation within defined coordination mechanisms in disaster-affected areas.
A brief overview of rehabilitation in natural disasters, highlighting current
developments, challenges; and gaps in the implementation of WHO guidelines for
Minimum Standards for Rehabilitation in Emergencies is discussed in order to
improve care for victims of future disasters.

Langue : ANGLAIS