A qualitative evaluation of the challenges in management for patients with chronic diseases during disasters in Iran.

Background: Iran's health care system faces significant challenges in managing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, and these are exacerbated during the frequent natural disasters. The current study was designed to understand challenges in providing healthcare services to patients with diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases during such crisis periods.

Methods: The conventional content analysis was used in this qualitative study. Participants included 46 patients with diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases, and 36 stakeholders with knowledge and experience in disasters. Data collection was carried out employing semi-structured interviews. Data analysis was performed using Graneheim and Lundman method.

Results: Four major challenges in providing care to patients with diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases during natural disasters include integrated management, physical, psychosocial health, health literacy and the behavior and barriers to healthcare delivery.

Conclusions: Developing countermeasures against medical monitoring system shutdown in order to detect medical needs and problems faced by chronic disease patients including those with diabetes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), is essential in preparedness for future disasters. Developing effective solutions may result in improved preparedness and better planning of diabetic and COPD patients for disasters.