Hospital Readiness for Respiratory Pandemics: Prioritizing Key Indicators Using AHP-BWM.

OBJECTIVE: Hospitals play a crucial role in responding to respiratory pandemics, yet the degree of their readiness varies widely across health systems. Identifying and prioritizing the most critical indicators of hospital preparedness can guide policymakers in resource allocation and strategic planning. This study aimed to determine and rank the key indicators influencing hospital readiness for respiratory pandemics in referral hospitals in Kerman Province, Iran. METHODS: A mixed-method, multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) approach was applied. Initially, a semi-structured Delphi process involving hospital managers and experts was used to identify essential readiness indicators based on the WHO checklist and local conditions. The finalized indicators were then prioritized using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Best-Worst Method (BWM). RESULTS: Eight indicators were recognized as crucial for hospital preparedness. Among them, "Appropriate Management Team and Planning" ranked highest, followed by "Provision of Human Resources" and "Provision of Medicine and Equipment." "Waste Management and Disinfection of the Environment" was identified as the least significant indicator. The consistency ratios for both methods were within acceptable limits, confirming the reliability of expert judgments. CONCLUSIONS: Effective management and proactive planning are the most influential determinants of hospital readiness during respiratory pandemics. Strengthening management structures, optimizing human resources, and ensuring essential supplies are critical steps toward enhancing health care system resilience.