Emergency medical and public health management: A case study of flood disaster in Chiang Rai Province
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: The 2024 flood and landslide disaster in Chiang Rai Province was a crisis-level event that had widespread impacts on the population and the public health system. This necessitates
a review to develop an effective emergency management model tailored to the local context.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the situation and develop a medical and public health emergency management model for flood and landslide disasters in Chiang Rai Province.
METHODS: This research and development (R&D) study was conducted in two phases. Phase 1 involved a situation analysis and retrospective review based on the 2P2R framework (prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery). Phase 2 focused on model development and personnel knowledge. The study included 90 administrators and operational personnel.
RESULTS: Emergency response was coordinated through the Public Health Emergency Operation Center (PHEOC) and Incident Command System (ICS). A total of 756 teams were mobilized, providing services to 38,180 affected individuals. including clinical care, disease surveillance, mental health support, and assistance for vulnerable populations. Implementation followed the 2P2R framework across all phases. Key success factors included a single command structure, strong intersectoral collaboration, and operational team readiness. Major challenges were workforce shortages, outdated data on vulnerable populations, communication disruptions in in high-risk areas, and budget constraints. The developed model emphasizes hazard-specific planning, workforce business continuity plans, GIS-based risk mapping, and backup communication systems. Post-implementation, participants achieved a mean knowledge score of 74.5% ± 12.7, with most demonstrating moderate to high levels, indicating the model’s strong feasibility and practical applicability.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Integrating the 2P2R framework with ICS enhances disaster management efficiency. However, future improvements must focus on flexible planning for extreme crises, capacity building, and modernizing information systems to minimize future losses.
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