The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on health management and health services: A case of Turkey

Abstract

Aim: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global issue that every country has begun to change its economic and social policies due to sustaining public health in the long term. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on health management and health services in Turkey. Material and Methods: This study follows a qualitative research methodology and used secondary data sources. The study used open access data based on The Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) and the Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health. Data were analyzed by Qualitative Content Analysis. Results: According to the findings obtained, the study provides two main parts as findings. First, the study presents a current profile for the Turkish health sector including 2010-2019. Secondly, the study provides key elements indicating the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on health management and health services in Turkey. With the help of classification, tables, and figures, the study provides original findings for the area of health management by giving what kinds of changes have occurred in health policies during COVID-19. Conclusion: When considering the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on health management and health services in Turkey, it can be said that Turkey has managed this pandemic period sufficiently. As a sample case, Turkish health policies and new management strategies can guide other developing and developed countries that were unsuccessful to manage the COVID-19 pandemic. This study shows that adaptable and sustainable health policies will keep public health in the long term. © 2021, Duzce University Medical School. All rights reserved.