Dr Archee Singh1, Dr Rob Ellis1, Mr Nick Ehlers1, Ms Kylie Dunbarr-Reid1, Ms Tara Hormann1, Ms Monika O’Brien1, Mr. Mike Terry1, Dr Shaun Chandler1, Dr Sharad Ratanjee1, Dr Eoin O’Sullivan1,2,3
1Kidney Health Service, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia, 2QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia, 3Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia
Biography:
Bio to come
Aim:
To assess the effects of Tropical Cyclone Alfred on dialysis services within Metro North, evaluate emergency preparedness and identify opportunities to improve disaster resilience in Nephrology care.
Background:
Dialysis patients are highly vulnerable during natural disasters due to their dependence on regular treatment and infrastructure. Cyclone Alfred disrupted critical infrastructure across South-East Queensland in March 2025, offering a unique opportunity to assess the real-world performance of disaster planning and coordination across a major dialysis network.
Methods:
A mixed-methods audit was conducted involving surveys of dialysis patients and staff, thematic analysis of free-text feedback, and statistical analysis of emergency admission trends pre- and post-cyclone. Associations between preparedness, support ratings, and patient demographics were analysed using chi-square and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Admission data from March 2025 were compared to a 12-month historical baseline using a Z-score approach.
Results:
Of 230 patients surveyed, 13.5% missed a dialysis session and 62.1% reported some treatment disruption. Despite widespread service interruptions, emergency admissions remained within normal variation (Z = 0.39). While 84.2% of patients felt supported, and 58.5% felt “very prepared”, qualitative responses highlighted gaps in after-hours communication, access to transport, and clarity of emergency guidance. Staff surveys revealed challenges in session coordination, timely data access, and role clarity. Both patients and staff highlighted the importance of a robust communication infrastructure plan integrated into emergency protocols.
Conclusions:
Cyclone Alfred tested but did not overwhelm dialysis services in Metro North. While patient safety was maintained, the audit highlighted key areas for improvement. Structured communication systems, emergency rosters, and disaster-specific training for dialysis teams are now embedded to improve preparedness and resilience.
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