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Value of Case Studies in Disaster Assessment?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 September 2011

Delphine Grynszpan ,
Virginia Murray  and
Silvia Llosa
Delphine Grynszpan*
Affiliation:
Centre for Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, London, Health Protection Agency London, UK
Virginia Murray
Affiliation:
Centre for Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, London, Health Protection Agency London, UK
Silvia Llosa
Affiliation:
UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, London, Health Protection Agency London, UK
*
Correspondence: Dr, Delphine Grynszpan Centre for Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental HazardsLondonHealth Protection Agency7th Floor Holborn Gate330 High HolbornLondon WC1V 7PPUnited Kingdom E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Case studies can be useful in assessing and learning lessons from emergency situations. In this paper, different uses for disaster case studies, are explored with identification of potential pitfalls that should be avoided. In addition, ways to improve the rigor and significance of case studies are suggested. Case studies can be used as examples or as a research tool. If conducted properly, they can provide robust and compelling results. It is argued that sharing a common guide to conducting and writing case studies among all disaster risk reduction professionals could improve the quality of case study reports and thereby strengthen their value in advancing the prevention, preparedness, and management of disasters and emergencies.

Keywords

disasterassessmentcase study
Type
Comprehensive Review
Information
Prehospital and Disaster Medicine , Volume 26 , Issue 3 , June 2011 , pp. 202 - 205
Copyright
Copyright Grynszpan © World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine 2011

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