Resilient Hospitals: An inter-regional guidance on strengthening resilience to health emergencies and disasters-in health facilities

This comprehensive guide outlines key actions that can be integrated into hospital routine systems, functions, and services to enhance resilience against a broad range of hazards, including epidemics and pandemics. Its purpose is to support hospital managers, department heads, emergency management committees, support services, administrative staff, and health authorities in strengthening their facilities' ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from crises while maintaining the continuity of essential health services. Recognizing the critical importance of resilient hospitals in saving lives and facilitating sustainable recovery, WHO’s Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO/EMRO) and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) together share expertise and joint commitment to advancing hospital and health system resilience. Through collaborative development of evidence-based tools and frameworks, the guide contributes to strengthening hospitals as integral components of health systems, enabling them not only to withstand emergencies, systemic shocks, and disasters but also to adapt and transform in their aftermath. This joint effort is pivotal in formulating and implementing this guide, safeguarding health services, supporting vulnerable populations, and promoting sustainable and resilient health infrastructure across all regions.

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