The Participation of Disaster Medical Assistance Team Members in Response to Disasters and Related Factors

 The purpose of this study was to assess the presence of Disaster Medical Assistance Team (DMAT) members at the site of disasters and related factors.

 This quasi-experimental study was conducted on all 178 DMAT members in Iran in 2020. A researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data, which consisted of 20 questions. On a pre-appointed time, DMAT members were called for disaster by receiving a text message and asked to come to a pre-appointed place. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics, included chi-square test. 

 Only 29% of the members responded to the call and showed up at the place. There were significant relationships between being a clinical member, membership in similar organizations, experience of work in disasters, worries about the health of the child, responsibility for taking care of an old family member, believing the disaster site’s safety and security and the availability of personal protective equipment in the disaster site with the status of response to disaster call.

 Overall, the response rate to call was very low, which indicates the need to take measures to improve it. Continuing training and providing safety at disaster areas and support for family members will increase the presence at work in disasters.