Times Of Crisis Research Articles

Impact of auditor characteristics on audit quality during COVID-19: Evidence from Saudi Arabia

This study aimed to analyze the impact of auditor characteristics on audit quality in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic by assessing how auditor characteristics (such as gender, age, education level, professional certificate, sector, size of the employees, revenue, experience, and region) impact audit quality in crisis conditions. It employed a descriptive-analytical approach and quantitative regression analysis of cross-sectional data. The survey was conducted in 2021 among 203 auditors in Saudi Arabia. Data collection was facilitated through the assistance of the Saudi Organization for Chartered and Professional Accountants (SOCPA) to make the sample more structured and representative. The results reveal that auditor characteristics played a significant role in determining audit quality during the pandemic. Gender, education level, audit firm size, and professionalism experience showed a strong correlation (r = 0.619) between professional experience and adaptability to remote auditing conditions. The regression analysis indicates a positive impact on audit performance. The results suggest practical implications for improving auditor selection, training programs, and regulatory frameworks to enhance audit resilience in times of crisis. It offers theoretical contribution by validating existing models under pandemic conditions and providing insights for the future of auditing practices. It also assists in establishing confidence in financial reporting together with control, making investors feel secure, and maintaining stability in the business world.

Sustainable internal communication and digital trends amidst an energy crisis: can a middle ground be found in South Africa?

PurposeThis study aims to explore the impact of current trends like the development of digital communication channels and a greater focus on sustainability, together with external pressures such as a growing electricity crisis on how internal communication is practiced, by using South African internal communication as context.Design/methodology/approachTwo rounds of qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior internal communication practitioners and consultants to provide a robust view of the research problem.FindingsIt was found that external pressures and trends were viewed as more important than incorporating the broader definition of sustainability into the practice of internal communication. It became clear that internal communication must negotiate seemingly opposing demands like moving to digital communication, while facing electricity shortages and balancing economic pressures with stakeholder inclusion in messages. The findings suggest that internal communication cement organisational survival but should embody the environmental and social elements of sustainability.Originality/valueThe study contributes new insights to the importance of internal communication during crisis times, like the energy crisis in this study. Internal communication should embody the wider sustainability discussion during periods when challenging external forces are at work.

The Social and Sociological Province of Climate Change: Introduction

AbstractDespite its importance and prominence in public debates, including in many social science-related disciplines such as political science, anthropology, geography, and history, climate change has been unevenly addressed within critical sociology. In the tradition of critical theories, a critical sociology approach could contribute to climate science by discussing, for instance, what it means for societies and individuals to live together in times of ecological crisis and how this interplays with other crises and challenges of our time. As we face various transformations caused by climate change, sociology can inquire about social relations in the Anthropocene, including the critique of this concept and its alternatives, such as Capitalocene. This introductory article explores the intersection of sociology and the climate crisis, examining the sociological significance of the latter. It also discusses the importance for sociology, at both theoretical and empirical levels, to climate-related debates. It highlights the need for pluralistic approaches that can contribute to framing and addressing climate change, encompassing diagnosis, alternatives, science, and politics. The papers in this special issue seek to engage with and contribute to the abovementioned debate by covering theoretical and empirical perspectives on climate crisis, drawing attention to themes such as the relationship between critical theory and climate change, theories of modernity, the notion of (post)sustainability, just transitions, the role of media systems in fostering sustainable transformations, and the contribution of social movements to socioecological transformation, with a particular focus on the 'Global South'.

A cross-country comparison of the organisation and reimbursement of intensive care in Europe

Abstract Background During the pandemic, intensive care capacity was a heavily discussed topic in Europe. Many European countries have increased their intensive care capacities to ensure treatment of all COVID-19 patients. A study, however, revealed that organisational characteristics, among other factors, were associated with in-hospital mortality. Our study thus aimed at reviewing international models for the organisation and reimbursement of intensive care. Methods Based on a scoping review, a number of European countries (Denmark, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden) was selected for a questionnaire-based expert survey. Results In most countries, intensive care is defined by law, while the definition in two countries has a recommendatory character and/or is driven by reimbursement. In line with the European Society of Intensive Care Medicine’s recommendations, the majority of countries has organised intensive care around 2-3 different (heterogeneously defined) levels of care for which reimbursement sometimes differs according to the level. For most countries, the number of physical (i.e., number of operable beds) as well as human resources (i.e., nurses) in intensive care is unknown. Many countries have an intensive care register which, in the case of Germany, was only implemented as a response to the pandemic. However, comparability is limited due to differences in indicators used. Although promising telemedical approaches in intensive care do exist, their use is not yet formalized in most countries. Conclusions Most countries rely on a level-based organisation of intensive care, even though clear evidence on their effect is missing. Heterogeneity of definitions as well as quality monitoring makes a comparison difficult. Further research is needed to better understand best practices and thus increase resilience as well as pandemic preparedness. Telemedical interventions could elevate (access to) high-quality care, especially in times of crises. Key messages • Further research is needed to better understand best practices and thus increase resilience as well as pandemic preparedness. • Telemedicine could elevate (access to) high-quality intensive care, especially in times of crises.

Patients’ and professionals’ experiences with remote care during COVID-19: a qualitative study

Abstract Background There are concerns about access to remote care for patients from low-income neighborhoods, as their first point of contact in Dutch health care is the general practitioner (GP). Now that general practice professionals have returned to the pre-pandemic ways of health care delivery, this paper looks back at experiences with remote care during COVID-19. It investigates experiences of both patients and general practice professionals with the approachability and appropriateness of remote care, and their satisfaction. Methods In this qualitative study, interviews were conducted with 78 patients and 18 GPs, 7 nurse practitioners and 6 mental health professionals from general practices in low-income neighborhoods. Interviews took place by phone or in person in the native language of participants. Results Patients from low-income neighborhoods generally found remote care to be approachable, especially telephone consultation. In contrast, video calling was rarely used. Most patients thought remote care was possible for minor ailments but still wanted to see the doctor face-to-face regularly. Patients were generally satisfied with remote care at the time, but this did not necessarily reflect their willingness to continue using it in the future. Moreover, there was lack in consensus among general practice professionals on the appropriateness of remote care for certain physical and mental complaints. Nurse practitioners and mental health professionals had a negative attitude toward remote care. Conclusions Integrating remote care in general practices in low-income neighborhoods is not only important in times of crisis, but also for the future where care is becoming increasingly digitalized. To achieve full integration of remote care in general practices, it is important to take opinions and barriers of patients and providers into account. It is also recommended to create guidelines for reaching consensus on the cases in which remote care can be appropriately used. Key messages • Take opinions and barriers regarding remote care of GP patients and providers into account. • Create guidelines to reach consensus on the appropriate use of remote care for GP patients’ health problems.

Skill mix among healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic – a scoping review

Abstract Background The problem of human resource shortages in health care was highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic in many countries around the world. Various solutions have been implemented to cope with the crisis, one of which is the skill mix of medical and peri-medical staff. The aim of the scoping review was to systematise knowledge about the skill mix of healthcare workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. Methods The review was conducted in five scientific databases including Cinahl Ultimate, Web of Science, Medline (PubMed), Embase and Scopus. The review included studies published from 2020 until July 2023, presenting original research on the skill mix of health care workers. Results A total of 5039 records were identified in the databases and 27 articles were included in the final analysis. Of the included studies, 14 were conducted in Western and Southern Europe. Most of the studies included in the review were conducted among nurses (n = 12), pharmacists (n = 11) and doctors (n = 6). The majority of studies concerned re-allocating tasks (n = 9) and re-allocating tasks and introducing or changing teamwork (n = 7). Research covered psychological aspects of work, patient safety, work reorganisation and training and collaboration. Many studies also focused on difficulties and barriers related to skill mix, such as blurring of responsibilities and role ambiguity. The review did not identify any studies conducted among laboratory diagnosticians, medical coordinators or surgical assistants. In addition, there were no studies of skill mix in Central and Eastern Europe during the pandemic. Conclusions Given that skill mix may be one of the solutions to reduce the negative impact of staff shortages, more research should be conducted in this area. Healthcare professionals should be involved in decision-making processes related to the granting of new competencies or the creation of new professions/functions in healthcare. Key messages • It is necessary to involve health professionals in the process of creating new skill mix solutions. • More research is needed on skill mix in times of crisis, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe.

Fronts in Minds: A Phenomenological Study on the Effects of War News on Collective Mental Health.

War has been recognized throughout history for its devastating effects on societies, and these effects have not been limited to physical destruction. In the modern era, even wars in remote regions have profound psychological effects on large masses due to the instant information transfer brought about by globalization and technology. This study aims to examine in depth the effects of exposure to war news on the collective mental health of individuals through a phenomenological approach. In this qualitative study using a phenomenological research design, one of the purposive sampling methods, criterion sampling, was employed. Face-to-face in-depth interviews lasting approximately 35-45 min were conducted with 20 participants. Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis method was used to analyze the obtained data. Data were collected according to COREQ criteria. According to the analysis results, three main categories emerged as follows: echoes of collective anxiety, keys to maintaining spiritual resilience, and navigating the media storm. This research provides important findings on the psychological and social effects of the media by examining the impact of war news on public mental health in depth. It was determined that war news has the potential to spread social anxiety and fear. Participants expressed the negative effects of war news on psychological and physical health and stated that this situation creates a wide wave of anxiety and psychological storms. The constant coverage of war news in the media also affects social empathy, shaping society's ability to support each other in times of crisis.

Plan for the crisis!

Abstract Background The COVID-19-crisis has posed major challenges for organisations providing care in terms of fulfilling their contracts as well as maintaining their quality standards. This project aimed to analyse the implementation of gender and diversity sensitive crisis preparedness in health and social care organisations in Austria. The innovation of this project lies in the organisational crisis preparation including the interfaces of all organisations and actors involved in the care of a vulnerable person. Methods A comprehensive survey and analysis of existing structures and processes was carried out. A participatory approach was used to develop modular guidelines tailored to different crisis scenarios. This was followed by a detailed process analysis, integration of good practices and the creation of assessment tools for practical evaluation. Staff training and technology needs were identified, followed by an assessment of the applicability of the findings to other social sector organisations. Results This project created guidelines with modular structures that enable preparation for crises and their consequences. Thereby strategies for risk mitigation and good practice examples, e.g. from the COVID-19 pandemic, were developed. A self-assessment of the status of crisis preparation as well as the continuous monitoring with special consideration of the intersectional diversity of the target groups and their vulnerability was developed and made available on the web. Conclusions The project results in guidelines as well as a self-assessment and monitoring tool directly benefiting the participating organisations. Through its transferability to other organisations the project promotes overall crisis resilience and sustainably strengthens the care for vulnerable groups in times of crisis. In addition, solidarity-based help in crisis situations is promoted. The project promotes not only organisational, but also individual as well as macro-social and economic benefits. Key messages • The project developed guidelines for gender and diversity sensitive crisis preparedness for health and social care organisations, including risk mitigation strategies and self-assessment/monitoring. • Crisis preparation must be systematically implemented in health and social care organisations involved in care of vulnerable persons.

Socioeconomic And Mental Health Challenges: Lessons From The COVID-19 Era

Abstract The relationship between work arrangements, financial difficulties, compliance with COVID-19 sanitary measures, and preexisting mental health issues amidst the ongoing pandemic is multifaceted. By merging data from the TEMPO cohort and other European cohort studies during the RESPOND European project, we seek to provide comprehensive about these dynamics for developing targeted interventions and policies aimed at mitigating the adverse impact of pandemics on mental well-being. Our analyses reveal significant associations between unemployment, financial strain, and elevated levels of symptoms of anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even after controlling for pre-pandemic socioeconomic and mental health factors, individuals experiencing unemployment or financial difficulties were more likely to report heightened mental distress. Additionally, our findings highlight gender-specific patterns in compliance with COVID-19 sanitary measures, with women exhibiting increased compliance amidst mental health difficulties, while men, particularly those with lower educational attainment, demonstrated decreased compliance. These preliminary results underscore the complex interplay between socioeconomic factors, mental health, and public health behaviours during pandemics. In conclusion, our study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and strategies to address the intersecting challenges of mental health, employment, financial strain, and compliance with public health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings emphasize the importance of considering socioeconomic disparities in designing effective interventions aimed at promoting public well-being and resilience in the face of future pandemics. By leveraging these insights, public health practitioners and policymakers can develop evidence-based approaches to support individuals and communities experiencing heightened vulnerabilities during times of crisis.

Tackling Health Inequalities in Times of Crisis

Abstract Across Europe, people are grappling with a multitude of challenges, spanning from the cost of living to housing, food insecurity, climate change, conflicts, and social unrest. These adversities significantly impact individuals’ health and wellbeing, and create the conditions for persisting health inequalities. At the root of these crises are unjust economic systems, in which the privileged few benefit while the majority face difficulties on a daily basis. Societies across Europe are witnessing rising polarisation and discrimination. Competitiveness and security are emerging as key priorities in the new European political landscape, with health and wellbeing pushed to the sidelines. Tackling health inequalities in times of crisis requires urgent, targeted action across societal sectors and levels. Education emerges as a crucial equaliser, alongside income and social safety nets. Moreover, effective climate strategies must prioritise the needs of the most vulnerable population groups. This plenary session lays the groundwork for understanding our contemporary, rapidly evolving landscape and its implications for addressing health inequalities. What lessons can we draw from new approaches across sectors that meet social and health needs, and how can we navigate these challenges – and sail those waves of innovation – to ensure equitable health and social justice for all? Moderators Caroline Costongs Director EuroHealthNet Cristina Abreu Santos Vice-President Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Portugal Keynote speakers Fran Baum The Stretton Institute, The University of Adelaide, Australia (by video message) Katarina Ivanković Knežević Director for Social Rights and Inclusion, Directorate-General Employment, Social Affairs and Inclusion, European Commission Panellists Didier Jourdan UNESCO Chair and WHO Collaborating Centre ‘Global Health and Education’, University of Clermont-Auvergne, France Jill Litt Professor of Environmental Health in the Environmental Studies Programme, University of Colorado, USA and Senior researcher, Barcelona Institute of Global Health (ISGlobal), Spain

Lessons learned and new approaches to stockpiling for public health emergencies

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need to improve preparedness for emerging health threats. This includes reserving assets for use in health emergencies, such as, shelters, energy supply items, and a stockpile of medical countermeasures (MCMs). Learnings from the recent pandemic are key to improving future strategies for preparedness in Ireland and across Europe. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with key representatives in France, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, and Norway. These countries were chosen as they have a similar threat profile to Ireland. The interviews aimed to understand the national approach taken in each country to stockpiling of MCMs for public health emergencies. Interview summaries were developed and reviewed by key representatives for clarity. Thematic analysis was conducted. Results All of the key representatives interviewed were working within their associated Department of Health, or a government affiliated public health agency. Themes and key findings identified included scope and current stockpiling approaches; cost considerations and efficiency, and an understanding of how stockpiling approaches have evolved overtime. While some countries stockpiled items such as facemasks, gloves and ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic, this is being reviewed, due to the high costs involved. Additionally, all countries reported that waste due to unused stock was a challenge, however, the use of stock rotation can reduce stock waste. Choice of supplier is also key for security of supply. Using indigenous suppliers can facilitate a scale up of supply in times of crises. Conclusions National MCMs stockpiles are a key resource that may be deployed as part of a response to health emergencies and disasters. Reducing waste was a key priority and challenge for all countries. Measures identified to reduce waste in future included active management of stockpiles, stock rotation and the use of indigenous suppliers. Key messages • As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries are reviewing their current approach to stockpiling. • Key issues for countries included preventing waste and ensuring security of MCM supply.

Transformative learning in times of crisis: exploring teachers’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic

Transformative learning in times of crisis: exploring teachers’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic

Increased feelings of nervousness among older Europeans post-pandemic

Abstract Background Feelings of nervousness are typically associated with situational factors and are temporary, less intense, and manageable with self-care. Study Aim This study examines which situational conditions are significant for feeling nervous among European older adults during the second wave of COVID-19. Methods Using data from Wave 9, COVID-19 Survey 2 (Summer, 2021) of the cross-national panel dataset the Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), this study utilizes a sample of 49,253 adults over 50 years old from 27 countries in Europe. Analysis: Binary logistic regression indicates all variables are significant predictors of feeling nervous: Gender [Wald= 498.7, p = 0.001 (<0.05)]; chronic disease [Wald= 1635.002 p = 0.001 (<0.05)], employment [Wald= 164.544, p = 0.001 (<0.05)]; home care [Wald= 138.4, p = 0.001 (<0.05)], technology [Wald= 20.66, p = 0.001 (<0.05)]; social support [Wald= 106.66, p = 0.001 (<0.05)], and financial support [Wald=35.5, p = 0.001 (<0.05)] [Chi-Square=3216.401, df = 6 and p = 0.001 (p < 0.05)]. Findings The odds ratio (OR) for gender is .627 (95% CI .601- .653), for chronic disease, is 2.659 (95% CI: 1.716 - 4.119) and employment is .675 (95% CI: .635-.717) and homecare is (OR)3.47(95% CI: 2.83-4.28); OR for social support is 855(95% CI:.830-.881), financial support 1.779 (95% CI: 1.47-2.15), and technology (OR).956 (95% CI: 938-.975). The model correctly predicted 94% of cases without feeling nervous and 16% of cases where people did feel nervous, giving an overall percentage correct prediction rate of 68%. Implications for Policy and Practice: Knowledge from this study can inform the introduction of public health interventions for older adults targeted toward specific situational circumstances that reduce nervousness. Key messages • While feelings of nervousness can be situational, the impact on mental health can go beyond the contextual environment. • Public health policies can support targeted interventions aimed at developing the coping skills necessary to better respond in times of crisis.

The pivotal role of positive emotions in maintaining nurses’ trust and preventing pandemic fatigue

Abstract Background Nursing is a challenging profession that demands quick adaptation to changing conditions. The COVID-19 pandemic has placed unprecedented pressure on nursing teams, leading to high-stress levels and uncertainty. This study examines how nurses’ emotional response at the start of the pandemic predicts their trust in the healthcare system and pandemic fatigue after three morbidity waves. Methods This study included collecting self-reported data among Israeli nurses in three time periods: 346 nurses during March-May 2020 (T1), 260 nurses during June-July 2020 (T2), and 91 nurses during February 2022 (T3). Change in the study variables was assessed using repeated-measure ANOVA. Two multiple linear regression models were calculated for trust and pandemic fatigue at T3, with the emotions at T1 and professional seniority as predictors. Results A significant increase in negative emotions was observed between T1 and T2 (M = 2.65, SD = 1.12 and M = 3.20, SD = 1.29 respectively). Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in trust levels between T1 and T3 (M = 4.68, SD = 1.14 and M = 4.07, SD = 1.08 respectively). The regression model for trust was significant, with 20% of the variance explained in it, revealing that higher positive emotions at T1 predicted higher trust at T3. Similarly, the regression model for pandemic fatigue was significant (R2=22%), showing that lower professional seniority and lower positive emotions at T1 were predictors of higher pandemic fatigue at T3. Conclusions During a crisis, nurses may experience intense negative emotions like fear and anxiety. However, positive emotions, such as pride and a sense of mission, are crucial in maintaining their trust and preventing the onset of pandemic fatigue. Healthcare organizations should promote emotional support and provide emotional resources so that nurses can continue to deliver high-quality care even during challenging times. Key messages • During times of crisis, it’s crucial to foster positivity and encourage a sense of pride and accomplishment in nursing staff. • Healthcare organizations must provide emotional support to nursing teams in routine and crisis situations to prevent burnout and maintain trust and long-term functioning.

The empowering role of health literacy in combatting fake news, misinformation and infodemics

Abstract Background In times of the rapid digital transformation, people need to acquire specific knowledge, skills and attitudes to deal with data, digital information and technology. Such skills are particularly important in times of crisis, as the COVID-19 pandemic has shown. Alongside the pandemic, a so called “infodemic” has emerged, i.e., an overabundance of information, accompanied by misinformation, which impedes sound decision-making processes, affects health literacy (HL) and impacts public health. However, while misinformation poses a well-known threat to our health and well-being, we still lack viable concepts and approaches to satisfactorily solving this issue. Thus, we aimed at reviewing the concept of HL in view of the infodemic and health-related challenges. Methods In a 12-month participatory process in Switzerland in 2023, we investigated the empowering role of HL in light of the polycrisis. On behalf of the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health, we conducted a literature review on existing HL definitions. Then, we conducted 6 expert interviews and 2 focus group interviews with other 10 experts in HL and associated domains, which guided and informed the review process. Results As a result, HL can be understood as a bundle of competencies to proactively deal with health-related information, services, and challenges and thereby empowers people to manage their and other’s health and well-being. Thus, HL empowers people to better manage digital information and services and promotes critical thinking. This in turn is necessary to assess information quality, uncover misinformation and to adequately manage health data and information. Conclusions HL represents a crucial prerequisite for individuals, professionals, and decision-makers to find trustworthy health information, to reflect upon the quality and credibility of sources and content, and to understand the complex interrelations of the determinants of health and is therefore crucial for public health. Key messages • Health literacy empowers people to adequately deal with fake news, misinformation and infodemics. • Strengthening health literacy offers great potential for public health to promote critical thinking and to rebuild trust.

Implementing mental health quality practices for vulnerable populations in five EU countries

Abstract Issue Mental ill-health has been a leading cause of disability in Europe for many years, with the COVID-19 pandemic increasing incidences of both poor mental health and mental disorders. Vulnerable groups such as children, migrants, individuals with existing mental health issues, and healthcare workers are particularly affected but often lack tailored mental health support. Description of the problem The MENTALITY project aims to alleviate mental health distress worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic focusing on vulnerable groups. It also involves developing capacity-building tools and disseminating research results to increase awareness and knowledge sharing. Five EU countries are currently piloting four distinct good practices to address mental health issues among vulnerable populations. Specifically, Poland is aiming to support migrants (including Ukrainian and Spanish-speaking populations), Latvia is focusing on the healthcare workforce, and Romania and Slovakia are concentrating on users and community services. Meanwhile, Greece and Slovakia are implementing initiatives for children. The implementation phase began in January 2024 with a duration of 6 months. Results By consulting with relevant stakeholders, a Situation Analysis and Needs Assessment framework has been conducted, allowing for informed decisions regarding the elements to be pilot. Partners have developed country specific piloting plans and external evaluators are leading a common framework for monitoring and evaluation, ensuring regular assessment of the project’s progress. Lessons The innovative MENTALITY project aspires to enhance community-based mental health systems and promote improved mental health services across EU Member States during crises by adopting a preventative approach. Preliminary results show that the initiatives within the project were much needed and have already begun to demonstrate promising outcomes in addressing mental health challenges at both individual and community levels. Key messages • The MENTALITY project aims to address mental health distress of vulnerable populations in times of crisis. • The project seeks to advance equality in health and social rights for all individuals living in the EU.

11.P. Scientific session: Behavioural Science of Emergency Preparedness across Europe

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical role of human behaviour in times of crisis. However, it also revealed that the behavioural sciences were not optimally prepared to provide actionable insights to policy makers to support preventive and coping behaviours in a crisis context. To ensure that the behavioural sciences can provide timely and effective advice to policy makers during future emergencies, it is key to act before a crisis occurs. The current workshop chaired by the Behavioural and Cultural Insights Unit of the WHO, will offer five perspectives to explore how behavioural science as a discipline is being applied to our understanding of pandemic and emergency preparedness and what concrete actions can and are already being taken now. Following five short presentations, a discussion with the panel and the audience will take place. The Dutch National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) will start by presenting their approach toward embedding behavioural science of pandemic preparedness: the organisation of a national stakeholder network, the development of a conceptual framework, and3) development of a quantitative survey monitor for individual level behaviour. monitoring pandemic preparedness. f The Spanish Carlos III Health Institute and Slovenian Public Health institute will present insights about operationalising this monitor in their given context. They will present results of the first two rounds of this monitor on behalf of the four European member states, focusing on comparative insights on perceptions and states of preparedness, vaccination, citizen wellbeing and resilience with respect to their context. Next, the Competence Centre on Behavioural Insights of the European Commission will present an experimental approach toward preparedness. They will present results based on a scenario study, focused on understanding behaviours in the broader context of pandemic and disaster preparedness. The last two presentations will reflect on qualitative approaches. The Behavioural and Cultural Insights Unit of the WHO will present their qualitative study on health-service access, needs and behaviours of Ukrainian refugees in neighbouring countries, and reflect on operating under emergency constraints. In the final presentation the RIVM will present their findings of qualitative methods to study perceived emergency readiness. In particular, their study focuses on what citizens understand by pandemic preparedness, and to what extent they perceive their government as prepared for a future pandemic. Overall, the workshop aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of the importance of behavioural science in pandemic and disaster preparedness and inspire collaborative action towards building resilient and effective strategies for future crises. Key messages • The workshop underlines the importance of behavioural science in preventing and responding to infectious disease outbreaks. • Participants learn how behavioural sciences can already be applied now to prepare citizens and organisations for future pandemics and crises.

A scenario study on disaster preparedness behaviours

Abstract Europe has faced several crises over recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Additionally, the climate crisis has led to an increase in the occurrence of extreme weather events and natural disasters. Getting citizens on board when it comes to being prepared for the changing risk landscape in the EU is essential in building societal resilience. The importance of the population’s preparedness to deal with disasters has also been underlined by the Commission’s identification of the Union Disaster Resilience Goals (2023/C 56/01). One of these goals focuses on increasing risk awareness and the adoption of risk prevention and preparedness measures among the population. Research has shown that simply advising people of potential risks in their region is not necessarily sufficient to motivate them to prepare. Yet, preparation is key to an adequate responses in emergency situations and improving preparedness may thus be a powerful tool to support the population’s ability to respond in times of crisis. The EC JRC’s Competence Centre on Behavioural Insights will present a study conducted in five member states (N = ∼1000 per country), which investigates the effect of envisioning a disaster situation, and therefore explicitly eliciting personal affectedness, on individuals’ self-reported preparedness intentions and preparedness behaviours. The study uses multiple measures for intentions and preparedness behaviours, including click-through to external information and an incentivised preparedness game.

The Norwegian Counties Public Health Survey (NCPHS)

Abstract Effective public health initiatives should be based upon a thorough understanding of important health-related factors. The purpose of The Norwegian Counties Public Health Survey (NCPHS) is to gain insights from the adult population on topics relevant for planning of public health policy, interventions, and action at the county and municipality levels. The survey includes a core questionnaire on public health-related topics such as health behaviour, subjective quality of life, distress, subjective health, social support, social capital, community contexts, and demographics, including indicators of socio-economy, with additional optional questions and scales varying across data collections. Samples are drawn from the Norwegian National Population Register. NCPHS was piloted in three counties in 2015 and in one county in 2018. After some revision of instruments and sampling procedures, surveys have been carried out in most Norwegian counties since 2019. The total number of participants has now passed 400 000. Expedient data analysis and reporting has enabled the Norwegian Institute of Public Health to present comprehensive reports within six weeks after completed data collections. In these, outcome variables are analysed against district (within counties), gender, age, educational attainment, and assessment of household economy. Tables are also made available at the municipality level. The NCPHS represent a valuable addition to existing health registries and regional health surveys, providing critical information for planning purposes for local and regional public health authorities, for assessing trends over time, comparisons across counties and regions, and for evaluation of policies and interventions. The value of such a system during times of crises was demonstrated during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the Lisbon 2024 European Public Health conference, a few selected examples of use of data from the NCPHS system will be presented. Key messages • Large-scale community surveys provide important insights for planning of public health policies and action. • Strong involvement and collaboration with regional and local public health personnell as well as with media and local people is a prerequisite for succeeding.

Adolescent well-being in time of crisis: The role of social and residential contexts

Abstract Background It is unknown whether social or residential context during the COVID-19 lockdowns may impact mental well-being. We identified classes of each of social and residential context during the lockdown and examined their associations with mental well-being among French adolescents one-year after the first lockdown. Methods We used data collected in a cross-sectional study design in 2021 from 387 adolescents ages 12 to 15 years enrolled in the school-based pilot study for EXIST. Participants reported social and residential characteristics during the lockdown retrospectively, and current mental well-being in self-report questionnaires. We used latent class analysis to identify classes of social and residential contexts, and linear regression models to study their association with mental well-being. Results Four social context classes were identified: class 1 ‘Low opportunities for social contacts at home’, class 2 ‘Moderate opportunities for social contact at home”, class 3 ‘High opportunities for social contact at home’, and class 4 ‘Very high opportunities for social contact at home’. Compared to class 4, lower levels of mental well-being were observed among adolescents in class 1 (b= -4.08, 95% CI [-8.06; -0.10]) one year after the lockdown. We identified four residential context classes, with differences across classes in proximity to nature, type of residence (e.g., apartment, house), and level of neighborhood deprivation. No association was found between residential context during the lockdown and adolescent mental well-being one year later. Conclusions An unsupportive social environment during the lockdown may have long-term effects on mental well-being among adolescents. Given the observed disparities in social support, future intervention should aim to strengthen social support for adolescents living in unsupportive environments (e.g., remote homework assistance, support for isolated parents, provision of virtual chat rooms for adolescents). Key messages • Mental well-being was challenged among youth with lower levels of social connectedness and support during lockdown, residential context was not associated with adolescent well-being after one year. • During crisis, a critical need among adolescents does not pertain to the physical attributes of their living environment, but rather to social support from friends or family within and outside home.