Strengthening the health system response to NCDs in humanitarian settings - Systems that Save Lives Case Study 1

Despite the high prevalence of NCDs in humanitarian settings, until relatively recently healthcare responses in these contexts have focused heavily on communicable diseases and immediate life-saving health needs. Evidence from stakeholders interviewed in the development of this case study suggest reasons for this include the low visibility of NCDs and lack of awareness of NCDs among key humanitarian stakeholders, a lack of integration of NCDs into emergency response plans and assessments, and the long-term, chronic nature of NCD treatment and care, which requires a different health system response to the provision of emergency healthcare. As a result, NCDs have not yet been adequately and systematically integrated into many countries’ essential package of health services at primary care level, or into emergency preparedness and response procedures and emergency national action plans.

This case study aims to illustrate the key health system challenges, alongside tested solutions, to improving NCD care and management in humanitarian settings. Drawing on evidence from humanitarian responses to conflict and natural disasters, it also aims to illustrate how investing in effective NCD programming in humanitarian settings can contribute to strengthening person-centred primary healthcare.