Coordination problems experienced by volunteer healthcare providers in disasters: Challenges and risks

This study aimed to explain the coordination problems that were experienced by volunteer healthcare providers in the acute period of disasters, with a special focus on the February 6 Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes. The population comprised of volunteer healthcare providers in the earthquake area participating in the health service in the first 72 hours after the Kahramanmaraş Earthquakes. A phenomenological type of study and criterion sampling method were used, and 12 people participated in the study. Data were collected through semistructured in-depth interviews. The transcripts were evaluated via the content analysis technique, and the process was from codes to categories and from categories to themes. This study observed that the organizational problems during the transfer caused loss of time and motivation. Experiencing disasters provided an advantage in adaptation to the area, whereas the lack of experience, organization, adaptation, and physical needs were obstructive in professional roles and in orientation. Individuals created reactive solutions to problems. There were differences in thought, approach, and behavior in coordination between healthcare providers from different regions. Healthcare providers experienced significant coordination problems in the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş. However, there is a benefit in experience for future disasters.