Challenges and support needs for flood evacuation of children with medical complexity in Japan: A qualitative study

The increasing frequency and scale of flood disasters pose significant challenges for evacuating children with medical complexity. This study aimed to clarify the challenges and necessary support for safely evacuating these children in Japan during floods.

A qualitative interview-based study was conducted with 10 caregivers of children with medical complexity. Interview data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's six-phase approach.

Four main themes related to challenges were identified: (1) Shortage of support personnel, (2) Inadequate response from the administration, (3) Specificity of medical needs, and (4) Limitations in coordination and communication. Four themes related to support needs were also identified: (1) Assistance, (2) Support by the administration, (3) Medical care, and (4) Information. These findings highlight the multifaceted nature of evacuation challenges for children with medical complexity, emphasizing the need for tailored support systems that address both social and medical aspects of disaster preparedness.

This study highlights the complex challenges in evacuating children with medical complexity during floods in Japan, addressing the increasing concerns raised by more frequent and severe flood disasters. These findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive community-based disaster preparedness involving various stakeholders, improved coordination, and tailored support systems for vulnerable children.