AUTHOR=Algaali Khalid Yousif Ahmed , Djalali Ahmadreza , Della Corte Francesco , Ismail Mohamed Ahmed , Ingrassia Pier Lugi TITLE=Postgraduate Education in Disaster Health and Medicine JOURNAL=Frontiers in Public Health VOLUME=3 YEAR=2015 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2015.00185 DOI=10.3389/fpubh.2015.00185 ISSN=2296-2565 ABSTRACT=Introduction

Education is key to effective disaster management. This study reviews several postgraduate educational programs in disaster medicine.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in two stages between October 2011 and February 2012. An online search was completed, followed by a web-based survey to collect information on key aspects of the identified programs.

Results

Thirty-four programs were identified worldwide. Public health was the main focus in 84% of these. E-learning was the preferred mode of instruction in 25% of cases. Most programs were accredited either nationally or internationally. Tuitions fees were the main source of funding.

Conclusion

There is a dearth of postgraduate training programs in disaster health and medicine. This applies especially to Asia, which is also the most vulnerable area. Educational provision must be strengthened in Asia and in low- and middle-income countries to enhance capacity building in the health management of disasters.