Strategies Employed in the Reconfiguration of Healthcare Facilities During COVID-19 in OECD Countries

Abstract

This research summarizes the strategies employed in reconfiguring healthcare facilities in OECD member countries to care for patients with COVID- 19. The findings were organized by highlighting each country’s hospital recon- figuration strategies, strategies targeting medical devices for treating COVID-19 patients, and medical devices classified by patient severity. Specific hospitals or new units were designated to treat patients in 79% of member countries, 47% reported having reoriented hospital areas for patient care, and 57% reported having increased capacity to treat patients in intensive care units. Telematic consultations (57%) and postponement of non-urgent interventions (76%) were reported strategies for reducing contagion. The 38 countries reported increased personal protective equipment, hospital beds, ventilators, and oxygenation supplies. Significantly few countries reported an increase in ECMO machines, negative pressure systems and rooms, and the availability of imaging equipment.