While some countries have started lifting their lockdowns, the information on the internet and television is still surrounded by COVID-19 facts and figures. There is only one good news that we are looking forward to: the world has left behind the COVID-19 pandemic. With the data available of millions of patients, we can hope that the vaccine and approved treatments will soon find their way. We can also hope that the health regulatory bodies will set up new public health protocols to deal with any other calamity of the same intensity.
However, health emergencies put health bodies under great strain to deliver better healthcare services. Currently, healthcare bodies, all across the globe, are facing a challenge to meet the increased demand during the COVID-19 outbreak. From individual healthcare, the focus has suddenly shifted to public health and the healthcare system.
Reinvent Healthcare System
It is unfortunate that the pandemic highlighted delivery gaps present in healthcare systems worldwide. Countries need to bring an upgrade in the hospital formation, from infrastructure to processes. The overburdened facilities will not be able to deal with another outbreak if corrective strategies are not put in place. One of the reasons why Germany’s death rate was comparatively lower was because of its efficient intensive care situation.
Digital Health in Action
For years, technology has been assisting the healthcare industry. Its need, however, now has become all the more important after the global economy is trying to control the novel coronavirus’ damage. Ready-made solutions are available in the market bringing healthcare to patients, rather than the opposite. Digital devices such as a stethoscope, otoscopes, oximeters, and ECG monitors are easily accessible and friendly to use, the readings of which can be remotely shared with doctors. This will also reduce the number of visits to doctors as well as the risk of cross-contamination. The digital platform is now the preferred mode of engaging, safeguarding and serving the population.
Policy Revamp
The spread of coronavirus has put the focus on reforming healthcare policies to promote universal access to affordable care. Most of the people are ensured health insurance through their employers, and with all-time high unemployment, millions are left without health coverage amid the most crucial pandemic of this century. In this regard, politicians need to pass legislation requiring all private and public health insurers to cover COVID-19 testing. Moreover, the public health fund should be established to cover testing for uninsured individuals. Personal injury solicitors can also play their part in molding their policies and file compensation claims for those infected by the virus due to other person’s carelessness
Balancing Between COVID-19 Care and Essential Healthcare Services
There is a need to balance between necessary clinical services and COVID-19 care as the pandemic continues. Healthcare communities must take into consideration the local transmission level of the virus while ensuring the provision of medical services for conditions other than the coronavirus. The healthcare facilities must be prepared to respond to a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases locally. Evaluate if the facilities can provide care in the most efficient way possible. Strategize how can the facilities slowly expand in-patient clinical care services.
The need for healthcare reforms is inevitable than ever before. The interdependence of our social, financial, health has never been so evidently visible earlier. It is time that our political and healthcare policies reflect this reality to deal with the ongoing and any crisis that may unravel in the future.