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The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015–2030 recognizes health at the heart of disaster risk management (DRM) at the global policy level. Five years on, it has catalyzed the rapid development of the field of Health Emergency and Disaster Risk Management (Health EDRM) by providing a mandate for building partnerships as well as enhancing scientific research.

There have been significant gains made through the partnership of health and DRM, but the relationship has not been without its challenges. Many national, regional, and global initiatives continue to operate with a lack of consistency and of linkages to respond to the Sendai Framework’s call for embedding health resilience in DRM, and conversely, embedding DRM in health resilience.

Going forward, the authors suggest that effective and efficient coordination of work is critical, building on emergency preparedness and response, while simultaneously putting a greater emphasis on prevention and recovery. This requires close collaboration with the wider health system and engagement with other sectors -a key public health approach- given that many of the actions to prevent health risks (by reducing hazards and vulnerabilities) rest with the activities of other sectors.

Furthermore, Ministries of health and their partners are encouraged to engage further with the application of the Health EDRM Framework, with the WHO Thematic Platform for Health EDRM and its associated Research Network, and in reporting to their National Focal Points for the Sendai Framework Monitor. This will enable ministries of health to measure the effects of emergencies and disasters on health, review progress in strengthening capacities and prioritize areas for further action.