Use of private hospital beds by public health systems in response to Covid-19

ABSTRACT

In this study, strategies adopted by countries with public health systems that expanded the supply of beds through the use of private hospitals in response to Covid-19 were examined. The study of selected cases was used to explore the institutional context in which measures were implemented, the management tools used and how to characterize government action in eight countries: Australia, Spain, Ireland, Italy, Chile, Mexico and Peru, in addition to Brazil. This analysis can help to identify health system management mechanisms necessary for the coordination of government actions to respond to Public Health Emergency situations, as well as improve the governance of health systems in the relationship between public and private sectors.

KEYWORDS
Hospital facilities administration; Public health administration; Emergency medical services; Public-Private Sector Partnerships