(C28) Estimation of the Socioeconomic Impact of the Earthquake in Pisco on the Peruvian Health Sector

Abstract

Introduction:

On 15 August 2007, a 7.0 Richter magnitude earthquake struck the southern coast of Peru. Economic resources were invested to help the healthcare facilities affected by the earthquake recover, and to control public health problems in the regions of Huancavelica, lea, and Lima.

Methods:

The estimation of the economic impact was based on the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean's methodology on the socioeconomic and environmental impact assessment of disasters. Reports and information about the actions taken by public and non-public health organizations during the response and recovery phases. This information was used to calculate the effect on goods and economic flows in the health sector.

Results:

The economic impact of the earthquake reached 139.1 million dollars, of which, 95% was related to damages to healthcare facilities, and 5% was due to losses.

Conclusions:

A national safe hospital strategy is needed in order to reduce the monetary investments spent on the recovery of damaged healthcare facilities, as well as to assure that the affected population continues to receive medical attention during the emergency phase.