The SHARE-HRS Decision Making Model of Scarce Health Resource Allocation in Humanitarian Response Settings: Thematic Analysis of Lived Experiences

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this research is to explore the experience of allocating scarce health resources in humanitarian response settings, specifically in relation to decision-making. METHODS: This research utilized an exploratory qualitative design. Participants were identified as clinicians with relevant first-hand experiences with scarce health resource allocation in humanitarian response settings. Participants were purposively recruited to include the broadest perspectives possible. Semi-structured interviews were hosted remotely. Transcripts capturing participant narratives were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis to allow themes to emerge. RESULTS: Seventeen participants were recruited and interviewed as part of the Scarce Health Resource Allocation in Humanitarian Response Settings (SHARE-HRS) project. Inductive thematic analysis related to decision making revealed 5 key themes: devices; priorities; ideals; context-specific decision making; and weight of decision making. These themes informed the development of the SHARE-HRS Decision Making Model. CONCLUSIONS: While health resource allocation decision-making is not unique to humanitarian settings, there are unique situational challenges faced by humanitarian health care workers. The SHARE-HRS Decision Making Model provides a new insight into how these challenges may be addressed or impact decision-making, and thus offers a structure and common nomenclature for future humanitarian health response operations and research.