The Essential Role of Early Rehabilitation in Disasters: A Single Center Experience in Türkiye-Syria Earthquake

Disasters can have catastrophic effects on people's physical, mental, and psychosocial status, as well as public health. Many people undoubtedly suffer from short- and long-term disabilities as a result of the disaster once the first shock wears off [1]. Two devastating earthquakes caused extensive damage in southern and central Türkiye and northern and western Syria in February 2023, resulting in thousands of deaths and injuries. It is estimated that approximately 15 million people were affected. Since there is a possibility that people affected by the earthquake will continue their lives with disabilities, it is important to make an early assessment and make preliminary preparations in this respect. With this preparation and rehabilitation carried out in the early period, it is aimed at helping individuals adapt more quickly to both personal and social life and to increase their independence in daily life.