The role of Advanced Technologies in Disasters Recovery & Rehabilitation

The number of disasters is increasing in the world which can lead to death, injury and disability in affected people. Although on-time, rapid and effective recovery and rehabilitation services/measures in post disaster phase prevent more injuries and disabilities. However, providing these services will have some difficulties in the scene of disasters. This study aims to review the potential of advanced technologies in disasters recovery and rehabilitation. Following an expanded English literature review, a database containing the related articles was developed. The core research group classified the appropriate articles and drafted the first version of the results. Using an expert panel methodology, the results were finalized based on the participants view points. Advanced technology can help responders to manage disaster recovery and rehabilitation phase. Using telerehabilitation, telecommunication, Geo Information Technology and mobile technologies are some examples which could reduce post disaster impacts. Despite wide use of advanced technology in pre-disaster phase, this potential has been considered less in disasters recovery and rehabilitation measures. This study suggests more research in disaster rehabilitation engineering.