Who should be undertaking population-based surveys in humanitarian emergencies?
2007
Who Should Conduct Surveys in Humanitarian Crises?
Commentary
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Paul B Spiegel
Primary Institution: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
Hypothesis
Who should be undertaking population-based surveys in humanitarian emergencies?
Conclusion
A dedicated corps of trained epidemiologists is needed to improve the quality of surveys in humanitarian emergencies.
Supporting Evidence
- Timely and accurate data are necessary to respond effectively to humanitarian emergencies.
- Methodological errors in cluster surveys can lead to inaccurate estimates of health outcomes.
- Coordination among NGOs is often lacking, which can result in overlapping surveys and wasted resources.
Takeaway
In emergencies, we need smart people to help us figure out how many people are sick or hungry, so we can help them better.
Methodology
Discussion of cluster survey methodology and its application in humanitarian settings.
Potential Biases
Surveys may be biased due to lack of coordination and insufficient training of personnel.
Limitations
Methodological errors in surveys have likely occurred for decades, leading to inaccurate data.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website