COVID-19 Lessons Learned (Part 1 of 3): System Preparedness — What the Pandemic Exposed

In this episode, we begin a three-part exploration into what COVID-19 taught us about pandemic preparedness across long-term care, acute care, and the wider healthcare system. This series focuses on practical insights grounded in real experiences — not headlines — highlighting what frontline IPAC teams actually faced throughout the pandemic.

In Part 1, we discuss:

- Uneven preparedness across provinces and territories

- PPE shortages and supply chain fragility

- Human factors: communication, staffing, and training - Outbreak challenges in long-term care

- Importance of Pandemic and LTC planning

- Improvements since 2020

- Key gaps that still need attention before the next public-health emergency

This episode sets the foundation for Parts 2 and 3, which will explore specific themes in greater depth.

Follow the Infection Control Exchange Podcast for upcoming episodes in the COVID-19 Lessons Learned Series.