Hospital preparedness in Crete: A longitudinal and regional study (2010–2018)

Introduction: Operational resilience of healthcare institutions is a critical factor for an effective health system response to mass disasters. This is the first study to longitudinally and regionally assess preparedness in Crete. Aim: To longitudinally and regionally assess the operational preparedness of healthcare personnel in Crete (2010–2018). Material-Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire developed by Routsi (2010), which had been used in previous studies in the same hospital. A pilot study (N=20) was conducted prior to the main phase. The sample included healthcare professionals from four phases: EDs of Heraklion (2010, N=83), all staff of Rethymno General Hospital (2012, N=100), Rethymno Operating Room staff (2018, N=32), and a broad regional survey in the 7th Health Region of Crete (2018, N=591). Data were analyzed using SPSS (chi-square tests). Results: In 2012, only 15% had read the preparedness plans. In 2018, 97% of OR staff were unaware of the crisis coordinator and only 9% knew the reference point. Regional analysis showed higher personal preparedness in Western Crete (35.1%) compared to Eastern Crete (27.7%, p=0.009), despite greater equipment inadequacy. Experiential field exercises were preferred by 79.2% of personnel. Conclusions: Despite wide acceptance of the need for crisis plans, practical knowledge of their implementation remains insufficient, creating a «preparedness paradox»: high theoretical acceptance but low operational knowledge. Experiential field exercises are urgently needed. Keywords: Hospital preparedness, mass disasters, crisis management, operational plans, preparedness paradox

Keywords: Hospital preparednes, mass disasters, crisis management, operational plans, preparedness paradox