Evaluating the effectiveness of a multi-hazard operational framework for managing pharmaceutical supply during disasters: insights from a tabletop exercise

Purpose Disasters pose a significant threat to healthcare systems, underscoring the need for evidence based operational frameworks to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of pharmaceutical supply operations. Therefore, an operational framework for managing pharmaceutical supply was developed and validated through a multi-stage process, including scoping reviews, in-depth interviews and world cafe discussion methods. This study aims to further evaluate the effectiveness of the operational framework through a tabletop exercise. Design/methodology/approach A multi-hazard tabletop exercise was developed by the research team from March to July 2024 and conducted during a three-day workshop in August 2024. The exercise involved 25 participants from various operational levels, who were exposed to the scenarios first without the aid of the operational framework and then with the operational framework. Participants’ perceptions of disaster management activities, the framework’s effectiveness and the conduct and design of the exercise were gathered through a pre- and post-survey and hot wash assessment. Findings Participants’ understanding and capability in disaster management activities were significantly improved after being introduced to the operational framework (p < 0.001). Most participants strongly agreed and agreed that the operational framework was comprehensive (96%, 24/25), easy to understand (100%, 25/25), enhanced efficiency (96%, 24/25) and facilitated effective coordination (96%, 24/25) and communication (96%, 24/25). All participants also strongly agreed and agreed that the tabletop exercise was well-structured, realistic and met its objectives. Practical implications This study demonstrated that the operational framework enhances policymakers and practitioners understanding and capabilities in managing pharmaceutical supply operations in multi-hazard disaster scenarios. The operational framework provides valuable guidance for efficient decision-making among practitioners and policymakers, enhancing effectiveness, efficiency and resilience in pharmaceutical supply operations. Originality/value There is a notable gap in the literature concerning the practical application and evaluation of frameworks in managing pharmaceutical supply operations in disaster settings. While conceptual models exist, few studies have rigorously tested their effectiveness in real-world or simulated disaster contexts. This paper aims to address this gap by presenting a practical and comprehensive operational framework that has been rigorously tested across multiple hazard scenarios throughout all phases of the disaster management cycle and at multiple operational levels.