Community and hospital preparedness in Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania: a dual assessment of household preparedness and health-facility emergency readiness

Purpose To examine household- and hospital-level disaster preparedness in Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania, and to identify factors associated with readiness to respond to acute and slow-onset hazards. Design/methodology/approach This research utilized a cross-sectional quantitative approach to evaluate the disaster preparedness of both hospitals and communities in Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania. A survey was administered to community members (n = 205) and healthcare professionals (n = 75). Preparedness was measured using a checklist covering awareness, plans/protocols, drills, supplies, communication, and coordination. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariable regression to identify correlates of preparedness scores. Findings Preparedness levels were uneven. Higher household preparedness aligned with prior hazard experience, receipt of risk-communication messages, and participation in community drills. At the facility level, the presence of written emergency plans, routine drills, minimum emergency supply stock, and defined incident-command roles was associated with higher preparedness. Research limitations/implications The findings are limited to Dodoma Municipality, suggesting the need for studies in other regions for broader applicability. Practical implications Priorities include institutionalising regular drills, clarifying roles through incident-command job cards, and safeguarding minimum emergency stocks while strengthening ward-level risk communication. The checklist can support routine monitoring and targeting of lower-scoring wards/facilities. Originality/value By jointly assessing communities and health facilities in an African municipal context through a single quantitative design, the study provides an integrated view of readiness and pragmatic entry points for resilience strengthening in resource-constrained settings.