Deploying a user-friendly GIS mapping tool in post-earthquake Turkey and Syria

Abstract

Background The February 2023 earthquakes in Turkey and Syria exposed significant gaps in healthcare information systems, which severely hampered communication, coordination, and the overall public health response. These disruptions were primarily due to the lack of real-time, accessible data on healthcare facilities. Methods In response, an interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) tool, coupled with an integrated WhatsApp chatbot, was developed under the platform Afetsaglikharitasi.org. This system enabled real-time mapping and updates on the status of healthcare services, even in areas with limited internet connectivity, facilitating more efficient resource coordination during the disaster response. Results By March 30, 2023, the disaster health map included data from 537 health centers and had reached over 800,000 individuals via social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. The platform attracted over 3,500 unique users, with most accessing it via mobile devices to locate healthcare services. Additionally, shortcomings in the Turkey National Disaster Response Plan (Türkiye Afet Müdahale Planı – TAMP) were identified, particularly the lack of integration of digital health technologies, which hindered resource allocation during the earthquake response and underscored the need for their inclusion in disaster management strategies. Conclusions This study demonstrates the effectiveness of digital health tools in enhancing disaster response and underscores the importance of integrating user-centered, deployable technologies to improve healthcare delivery in emergency settings.