PHARMACEUTICAL SERVICES IN METEOROLOGICAL DISASTERS

WHAT WE HAVE LEARNED AND WHAT ARE THE FUTURE CHALLENGES?

Abstract

Introduction: This study explores Pharmaceutical Assistance (FA) in Brazil in situations of meteorological disasters, emphasizing the importance of reducing impacts on public health through access and rational use of essential medicines. Such disasters often result in an increase in diseases, demanding a quick and efficient response from the health system. AF plays an important role in containing disease outbreaks and maintaining the health of affected populations. Objective: Analyze the challenges faced, strategies adopted, and best practices identified in the literature on PA in meteorological disasters, as well as describe actions taken during the floods that occurred in Rio Grande do Sul in May 2024. Method: The research, based on a literature search and document analysis, until October 2024, consisted of a review of scientific publications, reports from humanitarian organizations and official documents related to AF in meteorological disasters. Data analysis was carried out qualitatively, highlighting the main actions, challenges and good practices found in the literature. Results: The results are presented and discussed according to emerging themes, which include the importance of pharmaceutical assistance in public health during disaster situations; disaster preparedness and response; actions taken during disasters; the 2024 floods in Rio Grande do Sul; and post-disaster recovery. The main challenges for pharmaceutical assistance in disasters are the high demand for medicines, destruction of health infrastructure, interruption of supply chains and weak training of professionals. Conclusion: Strengthening the resilience of health systems in the event of disasters requires an integrated approach, which involves continuous planning, continued training of professionals and the creation of emergency stocks. In this way, pharmaceutical services can respond efficiently and sustainably to emergencies, minimizing impacts on the health of affected populations.