What is needed to effectively communicate risk during a health crisis? A qualitative study with international experts based on the COVID-19 pandemic.
BMJ Open
; 13(5): e067531, 2023 05 09.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-2313209
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE:
To identify a framework for risk communication during health crises by using the current pandemic as a case study.DESIGN:
A qualitative study based on individual interviews.SETTING:
Different countries with diverse levels of perceived success on risk communication during the COVID-19 health crisis.PARTICIPANTS:
International experts with experience in health crisis management or risk communication.ANALYSIS:
A thematic analysis was performed supported by Atlas.ti.RESULTS:
Four men and six women took part in the study (three from Europe, two from Latin America, two from North America, one from Asia and two from Oceania). Three major themes emerged from the data (1) institutionalising the communication strategy; (2) defining the problem that needs to be faced; (3) developing an effective communication strategy.CONCLUSION:
Risk communication during a health crisis requires preparation of governments and of health teams in order to produce and deliver effective messages as well as to help communities to make informed and healthy decisions. This is particularly relevant for slow disasters, such as COVID-19, as the strategy must innovate to avoid information fatigue of the audience. The findings of this article could inform guidelines to best equip countries for a clear communication strategy for future crises. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021234443.Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
COVID-19
Type of study:
Experimental Studies
/
Prognostic study
/
Qualitative research
Limits:
Female
/
Humans
/
Male
Country/Region as subject:
Asia
Language:
English
Journal:
BMJ Open
Year:
2023
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Bmjopen-2022-067531
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