THE IMPACT OF PANDEMICS ON PAKISTAN'S HEALTHCARE SYSTEM: LESSONS FROM COVID-19

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed critical strengths and weaknesses in Pakistan's healthcare system, offering valuable lessons for future pandemic preparedness. This study evaluates Pakistan's response to the pandemic, focusing on the healthcare system's capacity, resource allocation, and policy implementation. Despite limited resources, Pakistan demonstrated resilience through rapid mobilization of healthcare workers, establishment of temporary treatment centers, and effective public awareness campaigns. The country's experience with polio eradication and disease surveillance systems provided a foundation for managing COVID-19. However, significant challenges emerged, including inadequate healthcare infrastructure, shortages of medical supplies, and disparities in access to care between urban and rural areas. Weaknesses in data collection and coordination between federal and provincial authorities further hindered the response. The study highlights the importance of investing in healthcare infrastructure, strengthening disease surveillance, and improving intergovernmental coordination to enhance pandemic preparedness. Lessons from COVID-19 underscore the need for equitable healthcare access, robust supply chains, and community engagement to mitigate the impact of future health crises. By addressing these gaps, Pakistan can build a more resilient healthcare system capable of responding effectively to pandemics and other public health emergencies.

Keywords: COVID-19, Pakistan, healthcare system, pandemic response, public health, healthcare infrastructure, disease surveillance