Access to Health Services from the Perspective of Earthquake Survivors: The Case of the February 6 Kahramanmaraş Earthquake Depremzedelerin Perspektifinden Sağlık Hizmetlerine Erişim: 6 Şubat Kahramanmaraş Depremi Örneği

KİŞİ M., Akdemir E., METİN A.

Journal of Disaster and Risk, vol.8, no.2, pp.496-512, 2025 (Scopus, TRDizin) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 8 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.35341/afet.1526155
  • Journal Name: Journal of Disaster and Risk
  • Journal Indexes: Scopus, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.496-512
  • Keywords: Earthquake, Earthquake Survivor, Health Service, Phenomenology, Qualitative Research
  • Isparta University of Applied Sciences Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This study aims to examine the experiences of earthquake survivors in accessing health services after the earthquakes centered in Kahramanmaraş on February 6, 2023. Using qualitative research method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with earthquake survivors and the data obtained were revealed through phenomenological and thematic analysis. It was observed that psychological and physical disorders emerged after the earthquake and that these problems were caused by economic, environmental and personal factors. In the study, the difficulties faced by earthquake survivors in accessing health services were examined in the categories of organization, human resources, financing and service delivery. In addition, earthquake survivors' suggestions for the improvement of health services were presented in the categories of suggestions for health policy and suggestions for institutions. As a result, the findings of the study contribute to the development of health policies and the strengthening of health service delivery in times of disaster.