Pandemic Preparation and Response in Long-Term Care Hospitals: Lessons from COVID-19 Outbreaks and Preparedness for Future Infectious Diseases

Despite the establishment of response systems, most LTCHs experienced in-house outbreaks during the COVID-19 pandemic. These institutions commonly faced challenges such as staffing shortages and supply constraints. To ensure better preparedness for future outbreaks, infection control systems should be regularly evaluated and maintained through ongoing training, even during non-outbreak periods.