WHO publishes the first reference book on research methods for managing health emergencies and disaster risk
The WHO Kobe Centre (WKC) has coordinated a new reference book “WHO Guidance on Research Methods for Health Emergency and Disaster Risk Management” to address the serious research gap for informing policy and practice in this emerging field.
Seeking to address this, WKC convened an expert meeting in October 2018 in Kobe to identify key research needs in Health Emergency and Disaster Risk Management (Health EDRM). Research methods and ethics were identified as research priorities.
“The best possible evidence is crucial for managing the health risks of emergencies and disasters. The Guidance aims to fill the gap in the evidence base in Health EDRM. It will also support the implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals,” said project coordinator and WKC’s technical officer, Dr Ryoma Kayano.
The book has contributions from over 160 global experts from 30 countries, WHO headquarters and all Regional Offices. It contains 43 chapters covering a wide range of research fields. Case studies provide real-life examples of research methods and how they have modified policies. It will be useful for health professionals in Health EDRM, students and academics, government agencies and ministries, international organizations, and community and civil society organizations.
Read more here, and watch videos on the background and introduction to the Guidance.