Daniel Stewart

How COVID Has Impacted the Healthcare System

To say that the COVID-19 pandemic shook the world would be an understatement. But the healthcare system experienced the worst of it.

The healthcare industry is still battling the years-long pandemic, and experts believe current healthcare trends indicate that the impact of COVID-19 will continue for decades to come.

Packed ICU Units

The pandemic saw multiple waves of high case rates. Those periods led to inflated hospitalization numbers that many hospitals couldn't support. ICUs became full, leading many patients to wait on open beds. Some hospitals resorted to makeshift units to provide care to patients suffering the most from COVID.

While case rates have fallen, many believe that the healthcare system will suffer even more should additional waves occur.

Labor Shortages

Another long-term issue is labor. Current healthcare trends show a worrisome sign: Healthcare providers want to leave the profession in droves. Surges saw employee turnover rates climb to dizzying heights, with providers citing burnout and frustration as significant factors to those decisions.

Labor costs are exacerbating the issue, creating worry throughout the healthcare system should future resurgences of COVID emerge.

Long-Haul Costs

COVID-19 could result in long-term health issues that plague people for years to come. The healthcare system will likely experience increased utilization as a direct byproduct of the pandemic.

Unfortunately, most hospitals aren't equipped to handle increased capacity. Rising pharmaceutical and supply chain costs make it impossible for systems to adjust, resulting in worrying financial burdens.

An Uncertain Future

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the healthcare system in many ways, and it's not done yet. Despite the wide availability of vaccines that offer protection from the virus and its many variants, inoculation rates aren't where they should be.

Misinformation is running rampant, and many across the nation don't have access to the shot or education to the benefits it poses.

The future of healthcare is up in the air. While providers are working hard to bring us back to some semblance of normalcy, we have a long way to go. COVID isn't going away, and the ramifications of the last two years will continue to haunt the healthcare system.

Author Resource:-

Daniel Stewart has been helping people with their money management and personal finance with over 15 years' experience in business finance. You can find his thoughts at healthcare trends blog.