The Readiness of Hospitals Affiliated to Yazd University of Medical Sciences after the Third Peak of COVID-19 in Iran

Hospitals are one of the most important centers in confront epidemics and the proper preparation of these centers ensures rapid response and epidemic management. The aim of this study was to determine the readiness of hospitals affiliated to Yazd University of Medical Sciences after the third peak of corona in Iran.

This cross-sectional study was performed in 2021 to determine the readiness of 3 designated Corona hospitals affiliated to Yazd University of Medical Sciences in Iran. The data collection tool was a checklist provided by the World Health Organization on Hospital Readiness in the COVID-19 epidemic, including hospital specifications and 11 items with 107 questions, completed by Matron or the Secretary of the Hospital Crisis Committee.

In total, the three hospitals were 80% ready. Hospital C, with a total score of 203 out of 214, had the highest level of readiness compared to other medical centers. Hospital B and Hospital A were next with 157 and 155, respectively. In the study of each key element, the results showed that in three hospitals, the lowest percentage (58%) is related to communication and continuity of essential health services and patient care

According to the present results, it is necessary for hospitals to give more priority to these areas in future planning for the next wave of corona and other epidemics, and to equip and develop guidelines in the field of communication. Regarding the continuation of services to patients, planning to provide specialized manpower and related diagnostic and treatment equipment and the construction of crisis hospitals in Yazd province is proposed.