Role of General Practitioners in the Management of Disasters in Nepal

Introduction: Nepal is highly susceptible to natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, and landslides, which have been exacerbated by climate change. General Practitioners (GPs) are often the first point of contact in affected communities, playing a crucial role in managing the health consequences of such calamities. This study explores the role of GPs in disaster management in Nepal, with a particular focus on preparedness, response, and recovery phases. Methods: A review of current literature, policy documents, and field data was conducted to assess GPs’ roles, knowledge of disaster medicine, and the skills required for effective disaster response. Additionally, a gap analysis was performed to evaluate current skills and the specific needs of GPs in disaster situations. The study was undertaken in partnership with Saving Lives International – a UK charity. Results: The findings highlight that Nepal GPs have been trained in triaging injuries, providing essential primary care, and delivering essential mental health support in post-disaster settings. However, gaps were identified in areas such as quality and outcomes assessments, disaster medicine preparedness training, emergency response coordination, field medicine, pre-hospital trauma care, and impact on mental health. It underscores the importance of integrating GPs into disaster management frameworks in Nepal, emphasizing the collaboration with government agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community leaders. Training in disaster medicine and response protocols, as well as fostering community resilience, were identified as key areas of improvement. Conclusion: Enhancing GPs’ involvement in disaster management through structured training programs and resource allocation can improve healthcare outcomes in vulnerable communities, particularly during the recovery phase. Leveraging the local knowledge and established relationships, GPs can enhance the overall efficacy of disaster response efforts. The study calls for strategic investment in GP disaster preparedness to build a more resilient healthcare system capable of responding to the escalating threat of natural disasters in Nepal.