A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that during the pandemic, international healthcare providers showed signs of critical disruptions to their operations—showing low adaptability and shock resistance. This necessitates the urgent need for the bolstering of global health systems' resilience to strengthen medical services, the basic rights for all. Collaboration is vital, for it lessens the effects of shocks and pressures and more, but how to implement this precisely in the context of public health worldwide?
RESILIENT HEALTH SYSTEMS
According to the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), resilient health systems exhibit vital traits encompassing integration, adaptability, and shock resistance. Most emphasis is placed on the ability to transform based on the previous situation; thus, when a new epidemic arises, the system can be geared up to combat it effectively. The OECD notes that achieving resilience necessitates a comprehensive approach involving government and intergovernmental entities, where diverse entities collaborate to solve particular issues.
BUILDING HEALTH SYSTEM RESILIENCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS
To transform health system to be more resilient, partnerships are among governments' primary levers to enhance the initiatives. The public sector can utilize regional institutions, establish multi-sectoral platforms for planning, or create private-sector engagement strategies. This was illustrated during and soon after the pandemic by the Australian Centre for Disease Control, which effectively collaborated with other public health organizations to develop strategies, train healthcare workers, and establish a pooled procurement system. The result is lowered medical equipment costs and purchase vaccines in Australia. In addition, the country quickly secured resources through a private health sector partnership, securing 105,000 emergency nurses and 30,000 extra hospital beds for the pandemic response.
COLLABORATION THROUGH INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
International organizations, such as the United Nations (UN) or the WHO can become crucial public health allies, offering invaluable support through technical assistance, policy advocacy, and financial support. The WHO provides technical guidance and tools for building resilient health systems, from emergency preparedness planning to health workforce development from which any nation can leverage. Also, the UN, through its various agencies, channels funding towards strengthening healthcare infrastructure, training healthcare workers, and supporting research and development. This financial backing is particularly vital for low- and middle-income countries, enabling them to invest in critical areas for resilience building. In the policy front, both the UN and the WHO, as well as many others such as Doctors Without Borders, advocate for increased investment in global health security and equitable access to healthcare resources. This advocacy creates international momentum and holds governments accountable for their commitments to health
Resilient health systems are of utmost importance, demanding proactive integration and coordination to effectively manage health dynamics and prepare for unforeseen challenges. While national governments play a leading role in building resilient healthcare systems, international organizations are indispensable partners. The collective endeavor toward resilient health systems plays a pivotal role in shaping a healthier and more secure future for all. Through combined expertise and efforts, navigating complex health challenges to create a future where everyone has access to quality healthcare is not far from reality.