Introduction: Disaster preparedness is crucial for managing complex emergencies, yet educational frameworks are often underdeveloped or inconsistently applied across national contexts. This study introduces and evaluates the PRAD-MED (Preparedness and Disaster Medicine) program, a novel educational initiative developed in Sweden to enhance disaster response among healthcare professionals. Inspired by global competency frameworks, the program aimed to integrate theoretical, practical, and collaborative learning approaches, nationally and internationally, to strengthen organizational and individual preparedness in a structured manner.
Methodology: The study employed a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data were collected through a 29-question survey, assessing participants’ knowledge, confidence, and perceived relevance of the program. Focus group interviews and observational assessments provided qualitative insights into experiences and the programs impact on interdisciplinary collaboration, leadership, and organizational preparedness. The program featured a modular design with tabletop and modular simulation exercises.
Results: Sixteen physicians participated, representing diverse medical specialties. Quantitative findings showed significant improvements in knowledge, with 94% of participants rating their post program disaster medicine proficiency as “high” or “very high.” Leadership and collaboration skills were highly rated, with 87% identifying enhanced decision-making and teamwork capabilities. Qualitative data, including observers reports emphasized the transformative impact of simulations and cross-sectoral exercises, fostering a deeper understanding of roles and communication in disaster scenarios.
Conclusion: The PRAD-MED program demonstrated strong potential to address existing gaps in disaster medicine education by equipping healthcare professionals with the knowledge and skills required to serve as future instructors in disaster simulation and preparedness. By emphasizing leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practical exercises, the program likely enhanced participants’ readiness for future emergencies. Ongoing participant involvement in subsequent course rounds is believed to have fostered a sustainable and expanding training model. Continued development through broader stakeholder engagement and integration of advanced training technologies may further strengthen long-term disaster preparedness across Sweden.
Supplementary Information: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-026-08638-5.
Keywords: Health system preparedness; Interprofessional collaboration; Crisis leadership; Disaster education; Disaster medicine management; Simulation-based training.