Evaluation of general disaster preparedness beliefs of intern physicians at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine

Disasters constitute a significant public health concern due to their adverse effects on health and substantial societal burden. Individual preparedness levels directly influence vulnerability to harm. This study aims to examine disaster preparedness among intern physicians at Trakya University Faculty of Medicine, analyze influencing factors, and ultimately enhance awareness, improve training programs, and elevate healthcare workers' preparedness levels. Our sample consisted of 243 volunteer intern physicians from Trakya University Faculty of Medicine. Data were collected using a 55-item questionnaire comprising: 10 socio-demographic and disaster preparedness-related questions, and the 45-item General Disaster Preparedness Belief Scale. Participants had a mean age of 23.3 ± 1.3 years and scored an average of 168.8 ± 18.8 on the General Disaster Preparedness Belief Scale. Significant associations were found between preparedness beliefs and multiple variables including: gender, disaster-related reading, disaster medicine training, personal emergency kit ownership, disaster experience, and perceived professional/personal preparedness. The study demonstrates that improving intern physicians' disaster preparedness requires both theoretical education and practical drills. Findings indicate comprehensive preparedness should encompass not only awareness but also practical skill development. Incorporating disaster psychology and practical intervention techniques into medical curricula would address existing gaps. Enhancing healthcare professionals' disaster preparedness capacity will play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health. Keywords: Disaster, Disaster preparedness, Disaster medicine, Medical students