Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center
Authors:
Jameel T Abualenain
Background: Integrating technology into disaster response, particularly in health crisis management, enhances communication, resource management, and patient care. However, critical barriers such as system interoperability, network reliability, and insufficient specialized training hinder its effective adoption. Aim and Objective: This study explores the challenges faced by emergency operations center (EOC) leaders in Saudi Arabia in adopting technology for disaster medicine and identifies practical solutions to improve disaster preparedness and response. Methods: A structured survey was administered to 110 EOC leaders, achieving a response rate of 78.2%. The survey incorporated validated tools to assess technology usage, training adequacy, and implementation challenges. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses were explored through thematic analysis. Results: Among the 86 respondents, 91.9% reported using telemedicine and digital tools in disaster scenarios. However, 58% found training inadequate, 44% cited staff resistance to new technologies, and 42% highlighted connectivity issues as a significant challenge. Data security concerns were noted by 11%, particularly among older respondents. Correlation analysis revealed that leaders with greater experience perceived technology as more impactful, especially for communication and patient care. Thematic analysis also highlighted the importance of involving staff in decision-making to reduce resistance. Conclusion: Addressing training gaps, building resilient communication networks, and fostering adaptability among staff are critical to advancing technology integration in disaster response. These findings provide actionable insights for Saudi EOCs and offer a roadmap for enhancing global disaster medicine frameworks.
Keywords: Technology; Disaster Management; Emergency Operation Center
Authors
Jameel T Abualenain
Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, General Directorate of Emergencies, Disasters, and Medical Transportation Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Correspondence to:
Jameel Abualenain, Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, General Directorate of Emergencies, Disasters, and Medical Transportation Ministry of Health, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia jameel.abualenain@gmail.com
Publication history:
Received 28 Nov 2024
Accepted 30 Nov 2024
Published online 12 Dec 2024
Jameel T. Abualenain. Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. SJEMed. Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. https://sjemed.com/?mno=230643 [Access: December 30, 2024]. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. SJEMed. Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. SJEMed, [cited December 30, 2024]; Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain (2025) Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. SJEMed, Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. 2025. Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. Saudi Journal of Emergency Medicine, Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. "Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center." Saudi Journal of Emergency Medicine Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain. "Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center." Saudi Journal of Emergency Medicine Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. Web. 30 Dec 2024 doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520
Jameel T. Abualenain (2025) Barriers and Solutions in Integrating Technology in Disaster Management: Insights from Saudi Arabia’s Emergency Operations Center. Saudi Journal of Emergency Medicine, Online First: 12 Dec, 2024. doi:
10.24911/SJEMed.72-1732780520