Health System Resilience in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: Perspective on the Recent Lessons Learned

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Systems Strengthening
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Public health is crucial for building resilient communities and health systems capable of adapting during crises.
• The Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) convened experts to discuss challenges and opportunities for Health System Resilience (HSR) in the region.
• This paper reflects on a roundtable discussion addressing barriers to achieving resilient health systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To share insights on past lessons and explore future opportunities for enhancing Health System Resilience (HSR).
• To identify and address barriers hindering the development of resilient health systems in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Main Methods:

• A roundtable discussion involving public health experts from various institutions, including Field Epidemiology Training Programs (FETPs), WHO, and academia.
• Presentations on HSR, workforce development, and collective experiences, followed by an interactive Q&A session.
• Expert panel debated challenges, lessons learned from COVID-19, and strategies for adapting health systems.

Main Results:

• Discussion focused on challenges and lessons learned for building resilient health systems amidst new public health threats.
• Field experiences, including the role of FETPs (e.g., Yemen FETP), were shared.
• Insights were gained on how COVID-19 response can reshape HSR strategies and how systems can adapt to disruptions.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening pandemic preparedness and health systems is essential, requiring investment in public health functions and all-hazards emergency risk management.
• Key strategies include fostering whole-of-society engagement, enhancing primary healthcare, and promoting research and innovation.
• Investing in epidemiological capacity through sustained support for FETPs is crucial for surveillance and outbreak response.