article · BMC Health Services Research
Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has created opportunities to enhance accessibility and strengthen health system beyond the immediate response to the crisis. Irrespective of its impact on human life and the economy, COVID-19 has contributed to some healthcare improvements. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of health programs managers regarding the opportunities and lessons learned following the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia. A phenomenological qualitative study design was employed focusing on experts working in different programs and departments in the Ministry of Health. Key Informant Interviews (KII) were done from March 28 to April 22, 2023 among fourteen purposively selected participants from all essential programs coordinated at MoH. Data were managed and analyzed with the assistance of NVivo version 14.0 to code transcripts and compare the coding within-group and between-group responses and themes. Two main themes are discussed, opportunities that emerged and lessons learned following the pandemic of COVID-19. Opportunities include advancement in innovation and health technology for health care, improved infectious disease control mechanisms, improved prevention of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD), online training for healthcare providers, prompt and prolonged drug refills for chronic illnesses, behavioural change practices to the adoption of disease preventive measures like hand hygiene, social distancing and mask use practices, and integration of COVID-19 response into routine care. Lessons learned include ensuring the continued provision of other health services, the need for community awareness to better manage health crises, and the role of emergency preparedness as important facets for managing and guarding against future pandemics. The COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to the prevention of other infections, time saving through online platform which prevents further travel, and innovation for health services. Sustaining health care services under the emergency, allocating funds for emergencies, strengthening emergency preparedness and building a resilient health system that can withstand natural and man-made emergency problems were among lesson learned from the pandemic time.
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DOI: 10.1186/s12913-026-14483-5
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