Research shows that having previous experience of major incidents has a positive impact on awareness and preparedness of organizations. We investigated the effects of major incident experience on preparedness of health organizations on future disasters in Iran.

A qualitative study using a semistructured interview technique was conducted with 65 public health and therapeutic affairs managers. Analysis of the data was performed used the framework analysis technique, which was supported by qualitative research software.

The study found that prior experience of major incidents results in better performance, coordination, and cooperation in response to future events. There was a positive effect on policy making and resource distribution and an increase in (1) preparedness activities, (2) raising population awareness, and (3) improving knowledge. However, the preparedness actions were predominantly individual-dependent.

Our findings showed that to increase system efficiency and effectiveness within health organizations, an appropriate major incident management system is needed. The new system can use lessons learned from previous major incidents to better equip health organizations to cope with similar events in the future. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2013;7:313-318)