The Strategic Toolkit for Assessing Risks (STAR) offers a comprehensive and user-friendly framework designed to help national and subnational governments rapidly conduct strategic and evidence-based assessments of public health risks. This toolkit is crucial for the effective planning and prioritization of health emergency preparedness and disaster risk management activities. With the support of World Health Organization (WHO), over 115 risk profiling workshops have been conducted worldwide, showcasing a global commitment to enhancing public health resilience.
For the first time, this essential workshop was held in the Maldives, marking a significant milestone in the nation's commitment to advancing public health preparedness and disaster risk management. This inaugural event was an integral step in reviewing and updating the country's Health Emergency Operations Plan (HEOP). The HEOP serves as a critical blueprint for managing health emergencies and disasters with public health impacts. It encompasses a comprehensive hazard response plan, a roster of core response teams, a detailed communications strategy, as well as a procurement and logistics plan.
Having a clear and well-structured plan in place equips the Maldives with the capacity to respond more effectively to situations that threaten public health, thereby minimizing loss of life and protecting the well-being of its people. The unique geographic characteristics of the Maldives, being an archipelago, make the country particularly vulnerable to issues such as sea level rise, monsoons, and tsunamis. Additionally, the island nation's structure increases susceptibility to the rapid spread of disease outbreaks across islands. The HEOP ensures a coordinated response to contain such outbreaks and minimize harm, safeguarding the health of the population.
The lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the importance of robust health emergency planning. The Maldives' densely populated areas, coupled with a high volume of travel and tourism, make it imperative to be well-prepared for any health crisis. Disasters impact multiple aspects of life, and a coordinated response involving all stakeholders is essential to address medical needs, evacuation, infrastructure repair, and economic recovery.
Each stakeholder has the capacity to bring unique resources to the table. The government provides leadership and coordination; healthcare providers offer medical expertise; NGOs can supplement supplies and manpower; the tourism industry leverages its logistics and communication networks; and local communities possess vital knowledge of their surroundings. Rebuilding after a disaster requires a united effort, and collaboration between the government, NGOs, and the private sector is essential for restoring infrastructure, reviving the economy, and ensuring long-term sustainability.
By working together, these stakeholders can leverage their collective strengths, bridge gaps, and ensure a more efficient, effective, and holistic response to emergencies in the Maldives. The presence of stakeholders and partners from various sectors underscores the importance of a ‘Health beyond Health’ approach, and a multi-sectoral strategy in improving public health and emergency preparedness capacities. Support from expert facilitators from the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia provided invaluable expertise and guidance during the workshop.
Together, the Maldives can enhance its preparedness and resilience. Through collaboration, strategic planning, and the implementation of the STAR framework, the nation is well on its way to achieving greater public health security and disaster readiness.