JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

As emphasized by the Sendai and Hyogo frameworks, developing risk reduction strategies requires conducting a comprehensive risk assessment process using a multi-hazard approach. The multi-hazard risk assessment framework helps appropriately formulate risk reduction strategies by considering the interaction between hazards and integrating disaster risks.

Objective:

This study aims to develop a mixed-method study protocol for designing a risk assessment framework using a multi-hazard approach in the health sector, guiding researchers step by step in designing such frameworks.

Methods:

This protocol outlines the step-by-step process of a mixed-method study conducted in three phases: a systematic scoping review, directed qualitative content analysis, and the Delphi method. In the scoping review phase, studies related to multi-hazard risk assessment will be identified and reviewed using the approach proposed by Arksey and O'Malley (2005). In the qualitative part, the content analysis approach presented by Hsieh and Shannon (2005) will be used. Data will be collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews, and an initial framework will be designed. Then, in the third phase, the initially designed framework will be developed and refined, and consensus will be reached using the Delphi method.

Results:

This study has been approved by the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences ethics committee with an ethics number code (IR.USWR.REC.1403.284). The study will begin in October 2025 and is expected to end in December 2026. The Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals, policy briefs for health system managers and decision makers, and targeted training for disaster and emergency risk management stakeholders.

Conclusions:

This protocol provides comprehensive guidance for conducting a mixed-method study to design a conceptual framework for risk assessment with a multi-hazard approach in the health sector, which leads to strengthened research methods and can serve as a guide for researchers. It is expected that the study's findings will contribute to the development of risk integration for disaster preparedness and resilience, support informed decision-making, and facilitate the implementation of risk reduction strategies within the health sector. Clinical Trial: Not applicable. This study is a mixed-method protocol involving qualitative interviews and framework development and does not include any clinical interventions or systematic reviews requiring registration.