The common point of natural and man-made disasters is that they threaten human life and health and cause severe economic and ecological losses. When an emergency occurs, it is necessary to be prepared in advance, to provide a fast and effective service, to be informed about the subject, to refresh the existing knowledge, and to acquire skills in order to minimize the effects of destruction in the short, medium and long term. For members of the medical profession, this is even more of a priority. The Turkish Medical Association considers monitoring the health services provided in extraordinary situations and providing consultancy when necessary. It has been carrying out its studies on health services in exceptional situations for a long time within the scope of its responsibilities in the field of public health and professional activity.

The occurrence of two separate earthquakes with a magnitude of 7.7 and 7.6 in Kahramanmaraş on February 6 and covering 10 provinces was a rare natural disaster. According to official figures, the loss of life of more than 50 thousand and the number of injuries of more than 100 thousand were significant in terms of the magnitude of the disaster. The Central Council of the Turkish Medical Association reached the region immediately after the earthquake, determined the status of health service buildings and health services, provided health services through volunteer physicians, and prepared early period, first-month, and second-month reports for the public. They made explanations and solution proposals on the problems, especially health, experienced by colleagues and the public.

In this article, the activities of the Turkish Medical Association, as a non-governmental organization and professional organization, regarding the earthquake we experienced, as in other extraordinary situations, are explained. Anahtar Kelimeler : Earthquakes, The Turkish Medical Association, Disasters, First aid