Comparative Analysis of Disparities in Primary Healthcare Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic: Strategies for Mitigating Disruptions in Essential Health Services
نویسندگان
1 Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
2 Tabriz Health Services Management Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
3 Department of Management and Health Policy, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
4 Medical Philosophy and History Research Center, Department of health policy and management, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
doi
10.22034/ircmj.2025.473634.1386چکیده
Background and Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges to primary healthcare (PHC) systems worldwide, disrupting essential health services (EHSs) and exposing system vulnerabilities. This comparative study analyzes disparities in PHC responses across 15 countries, examining factors influencing their ability to maintain EHSs during the pandemic. Methods: This descriptive-comparative study, conducted in 2023, assessed the performance of 15 countries in response to COVID-19 and maintaining EHSs. Data were collected from national health databases, World Health Organization (WHO) reports, and peer-reviewed articles. Performance indicators, including life expectancy, mortality rates, healthcare expenditures, and COVID-19 case statistics, were analyzed. The analysis utilized both thematic and comparative methods to evaluate strategies and identify. Results: : The study revealed that 86.6% of countries experienced disruptions in at least one EHS. Indonesia faced the highest disruption rate (90%) due to resource shortages. In contrast, Cuba and Rwanda effectively maintained EHSs, leveraging robust PHC systems and prior epidemic experience. High-income countries like Finland and New Zealand mitigated disruptions through telemedicine and specialized COVID-19 centers. Key factors influencing response effectiveness included healthcare infrastructure, digital health adoption, resource allocation, and community engagement. Countries with well-developed PHC systems demonstrated better resilience and adaptability. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of robust PHC systems in mitigating pandemic impacts. Addressing healthcare disparities, investing in digital health, and strengthening PHC frameworks are essential for future preparedness. Collaborative efforts and knowledge-sharing can help build more resilient and equitable healthcare systems globally.
