D.I.S.A.S.T.E.R. – Dynamic Interactive Scenario for Advancing Simulation in Emergency Response

Karachi – In a world loaded with unexpected difficulties, the basic requirement for readiness notwithstanding calamities and crises couldn’t possibly be more significant. To fulfill this need, the Indus Hospital, Korangi Campus, facilitated an extensive two-day workshop named “D.I.S.A.S.T.E.R: Dynamic Intelligent Situation for Propelling Recreation in Crisis Reaction.” This workshop served as the cornerstone of a year-long certification program in Clinical Operations Management (CP COM), which commenced in January 2023.

This event successfully convened a distinguished gathering of experts and professionals, all united in their quest to elevate their proficiency in the realm of emergency response simulation. Under the guidance of expert trainers, namely Mr. Imran Jamal, Ms. Qurat ul Ain Maroof, Dr. Adeel Khatri, and Dr. Mohammad Nayab Khan, participants were afforded the invaluable opportunity to attain an in-depth understanding of Disaster Management within healthcare settings.

Day 1 Highlights:

The workshop commenced with a carefully orchestrated series of interactive sessions tailored to enhance participants’ grasp of emergency scenarios. These sessions were led by Mr. Imran Jamal and Ms. Qurat ul Ain, an influential figure in the field of Operations Management & Disaster Preparedness. This was followed by an exploration of the critical significance of operations management by Naveed Ahmed.

During discussions, attendees delved into a diverse array of pivotal topics concerning disaster preparedness, response strategies, and the central role that simulation training plays. The practical expertise was shared by Dr. Adeel Khatri, a Consultant in Emergency Medicine and a highly regarded expert in the realm of simulation training.

The experience included hands-on demonstrations and exercises, providing participants with insights into the intricate challenges inherent in delivering healthcare during various disaster scenarios. A meticulously designed series of simulations, spanning departmental crises from a broader hospital-wide perspective, granted attendees an authentic and realistic experience.

To optimize the learning process, participants were divided into four distinct groups, each rotating through different stations.

Day 2

Day 2 of the workshop delved even deeper into the domain of emergency response simulation, providing participants with the opportunity to apply their newfound knowledge within realistic scenarios. The objective was to sharpen their decision-making, teamwork, and coordination skills in a controlled and immersive environment. The workshop was led by Ms. Qurat ul Ain and included learnings from Dr. Sheikh Zeeshan Noor, the Chief Technical Officer and a seasoned trainer from Sindh Integrated Emergency & Health Services.

A standout moment on Day 2 was the Mega Code Drill, a significant event led by Ms. Qurat ul Ain, Imran Jamal, and supported by Dr. Adeel Khatri and Dr. Nayab Khan. This drill was thoughtfully designed to simulate a national-level disaster, building upon the scenarios introduced on the first day. Furthermore, it incorporated regional challenges such as earthquakes and floods, leading to dam breakage scenarios.

This comprehensive exercise introduced participants to the concept of Command-and-Control Systems, with support from various law enforcement agencies. It also highlighted the logistics of patient movement through air ambulances and boats, as well as the establishment of mortuaries and the distribution of supplies and medicines.

The closing ceremony was conducted by Dr. Farah Bari, the Deputy General Manager of Operations. She had the honor of presenting the “Best Presenter” award to the participants, acknowledging their outstanding contributions. As a gesture of appreciation, she was presented with a commendation shield.