Ready for the Next Crisis? Investing in Health System Resilience
The COVID-19 pandemic had massive consequences for societies and health systems across the OECD and beyond. Health systems were not resilient enough. Resilient health systems plan and are ready for shocks, such as pandemics, economic crises or the effects of climate change. They are able to minimise the negative consequences of crises, recover as quickly as possible, and adapt to become better performing and more prepared. Smart, targeted investments in health system resilience are needed to improve health and ensure the next shock is less disruptive and costly. This report reviews the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic and applies them to build policy recommendations to ensure the global community is ready for the next crisis. The reviews and recommendations cover health system issues – including workforce, digitalisation, continuity of care and mental health – and other topics, including long-term care, supply chains and international co-operation.
Lessons from the COVID-19 critical care surge
The COVID-19 pandemic placed enormous strain on critical care resources. After introducing a framework for critical care surges, this chapter analyses the prepare and absorb stages of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic by OECD countries, identifying strengths and weaknesses. Capacity was increased with the introduction of more resources. Alternative uses of critical care resources were reduced, increasing their availability for patients with COVID-19. Organisational changes improved the efficient use of these resources. The use of modelling was valuable and widespread, but required data about resources and information to be developed. Increasing investment in critical care should be planned carefully to balance resilience and sustainability. Improving resilience in the future, including for threats beyond COVID-19, will need to build on the gains made during the pandemic response.
- Click to access:
-
Click to download PDF - 1.10MBPDF