Seismic risk perception in Italian hospitals: the role of non-structural elements

Hospitals are at the forefront of responding to disasters, including those associated with earthquakes, providing essential medical care, public health services and coordination efforts to mitigate the impact of disasters on individuals and communities by providing immediate assistance to those affected. Furthermore, in addition to receiving and treating patients, they must be able to ensure prevention for any epidemics. The disproportionate impact of earthquakes on critical structures such as hospitals can often be attributed to the inadequate seismic response of non-structural elements. While the structural integrity of buildings is crucial, the non-structural components and systems within such buildings play a significant role in ensuring the continued functioning of essential structures during and after an earthquake. Damaging