A Systems Approach and Notional Response Model for Preserving the Health System during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

During any pandemic, it has long been known that local jurisdictions would need to be self-sufficient with little or no outside assistance, particularly from the federal government. While all eyes have been on California, New York, and Massachusetts, the capacities of health systems in other states have yet to be put to the test. If there are subsequent waves of COVID-19 and other jurisdictions see significant increases in disease spread, the systems used to respond will become critical.

Using a review and synthesis approach, this article explores our collective experience and knowledge as it pertains to use of alternate care sites for dealing with the patient surge created by a disease outbreak. Probing the concept of alternate care site (ACS) systems reveals various types of alternate care sites that may be employed during an outbreak. The historical value of ACS models used during outbreak response are discussed. This culminates in the development of a notional response model and list of actions that should be taken by all jurisdictions as we prepare for additional waves of disease.