Abstract
Japanese Promotion Council for Laboratory Testing, in collaboration with multiple organizations involved in clinical laboratory testing, promptly and effectively conducted disaster support activities following the Noto Peninsula Earthquake as announced by the Japan Meteorological Agency on January 1, 2024. The purpose of this study is to clarify the role of these activities in disaster support and to examine the challenges faced. The support activities included liaison with the Ishikawa Prefectural Health, Medical, and Welfare Coordination Headquarters, which was established at the Ishikawa Prefectural Government Office, and providing simple testing equipment for basic health management and infection monitoring at evacuation centers. After confirming the interpretation of legal restrictions, they established a scheme that allowed for a swift response to requests for testing equipment and reagents from medical facilities. As a result of approximately two months of support activities, the risk of clinical testing in the disaster area was reduced, contributing to the provision of highly reliable test data. Additionally, the material supply scheme functioned effectively, allowing for a quick response to the needs of medical facilities and relief teams. On the other hand, challenges identified from the experience of these activities include: (1) Strengthening the cooperation system between organizations, (2) Optimizing the procurement and distribution scheme of supplies, (3) Developing disaster response manuals, (4) Enhancing cooperation with the local community, and (5) Preparing for legal restrictions in advance. By leveraging the experience and lessons learned, the aim is to enhance disaster response capabilities in the clinical testing field through improved preparedness and strengthened cooperation among stakeholders during normal times.
