Extreme heat preparedness and response implementation: a qualitative study of barriers, facilitators, and needs among local health jurisdictions in the United States

Extreme heat preparedness and response implementation: a qualitative study of barriers, facilitators, and needs among local health jurisdictions in the United States

Extreme heat events (EHEs) are the deadliest weather hazards in the United States (U.S.). Local health jurisdictions (LHJs) in the U.S. are frontline responders during EHEs and other public health emergencies. This study aims to clarify the factors influencing EHE preparedness and response implement...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Jessica C Kelley, Cat Hartwell, Evan C Mix, Chelsea Gridley-Smith, Gregory A Wellenius, Amruta Nori-Sarma, Jeremy J Hess, Nicole A Errett
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: IOP Publishing 2025-01-01
Series:Environmental Research: Health
Subjects:
extreme heat events
local health jurisdictions
public health
public health emergency preparedness
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1088/2752-5309/adf08b
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Extreme heat events (EHEs) are the deadliest weather hazards in the United States (U.S.). Local health jurisdictions (LHJs) in the U.S. are frontline responders during EHEs and other public health emergencies. This study aims to clarify the factors influencing EHE preparedness and response implementation. From January to March 2023, we conducted and thematically analyzed four focus group discussions with 17 representatives from U.S. LHJs. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to guide the discussion. Participants described barriers, facilitators, and needs surrounding extreme heat preparedness and response implementation. The focus group discussions identified four factors that influence EHE preparedness and response implementation: local conditions (environmental, political, planning); engaging communities and tailoring strategies; partnerships and relational connections; and available resources. Focus group discussions emphasized the need for EHE preparedness and response activities to be targeted and scaled to the unique climate, population, and needs of the implementing jurisdiction. Local conditions, community engagement, partnerships, and available resources shape LHJ priorities. The study emphasizes the need for scalable resources and comprehensive plans, and identifies research gaps to be addressed in the future.
ISSN:2752-5309

Similar Items