Hospital Resilience to Earthquake-Induced Lifeline Interruptions

Abstract

Damage to lifeline system installed in a healthcare unit due to an earthquake will interrupt the medical operation. This study aims to assess the hospital resilience to the interruptions. A questionnaire was used as a tool to collect data from 362 persons working in the hospital. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics showing frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. For the assessed lifeline systems, the electrical system is the most important lifeline system which will cause the operation suspension when disrupted. The estimated operable hour after the disruption of the systems was between 4.51-11.13 hrs. The information from this study can be used as a guideline for lifeline system management and readiness preparation to provide continuous medical services.