What we do in Emergency Preparedness?
What is SEARHEF Preparedness Stream?
The vulnerability of the South-East Asia Region (SEAR) to various natural and human-induced hazards and disasters resulting from them is apparent. Accordingly, the sixty-ninth session of the Regional Committee endorsed the expansion of the scope of SEARHEF by creating a Preparedness Stream.
The Preparedness Stream has been supported by the voluntary contributions of the Member States. Better preparedness is the key to a better response. Hence, the Preparedness Stream of SEARHEF aims to build the capacity of member states and their health systems before emergencies arise. Preparedness activities identified would contribute to bridging the gaps identified in the areas of International Health Regulations, SEAR Benchmarks for Emergency Preparedness and Response,
Member States could use the Preparedness Stream to fund activities intended to enhance the resilience of health systems, such as:
Developing policies, plans, guidelines, and standard operating procedures,
Capacity building of human resources based on developed plans, guidelines, and standard operating procedures.
Testing of plans through drills and simulation exercises.
Strengthening Emergency Medical Teams capacity of Member States.
Enhancing information and knowledge management systems for risk assessment, management, and communication.
Establishment and strengthening of Health Emergency Operations Centers.
Improvement of health emergency supply chain management systems
Who can obtain SEARHEF Preparedness Stream funding?
Any Member State of the Region can obtain SEARHEF funds to meet a specific preparedness need. Upon rapid scrutiny and approval of the request, the Preparedness Stream funding could be mobilized to execute the proposed activities.
How much does SEARHEF disburse under the Preparedness Stream?
SEARHEF disburses a maximum of US$ 200,000 per Member State per biennium. The fund must be used within 8 months from the date of release.
What are the unique features of the SEARHEF Preparedness Stream?
The unique features of SEARHEF Preparedness Stream include:
Ability to contribute to mitigating disaster risks in addition to the emergency response.
Use the proven SEARHEF Response Stream operational and accountability mechanisms for preparedness activities.