Emergency Medical Care Provided by Humanitarian Organizations in Response to Sudden Onset Disasters in Southeast Asia: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this scoping review is to identify the types of EMC provided by humanitarian organizations in response to sudden-onset disasters in Southeast Asia in the last 10 years. Methods: We followed Arskey and O’Malley method and Joanna Briggs Institute guidance. Limited to online-based journal databases (PubMed, Embase, and ProQuest) and ReliefWeb and PreventionWeb for grey literature between 2014 and 2023. Study was performed from January-June 2024. Results: Finally, 33 studies were included covering 17 disasters (Indonesia, Philippines, Laos, and Myanmar). Fourteen disasters were caused by a single hazard: earthquakes (6, 35.3%), floods (4, 23,5%), cyclones (2, 11.8%), tsunamis (1, 5.9%), and volcanic eruptions, and 3 were multi-hazard: earthquakes and tsunamis (2, 11.8%) and flood and landslide (1, 5.9%). The main services provided were mental health and psychosocial support; assessment, resuscitation, and stabilization; referral and transfer; and health promotion and community engagement. Conclusions: Humanitarian organizations should prioritize services to meet demands: mental health and psychosocial support; assessment, resuscitation, and stabilization; referral and transfer; and health promotion and community engagement. This can guide national governments in scaling up preparedness and response efforts, ensuring that demands are met at a local level but also aligned with international disaster response.