J Agric Med Community Health.  2025 Sep;50(3):275-287. 10.5393/JAMCH.2025.50.3.275.

Evaluation of the COVID-19 Response System in Busan Metropolitan City and Policy Implications-Based on Expert Consultation

• Koh KW
• Kim HS
• Lee TH

• KMID: 2576755
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5393/JAMCH.2025.50.3.275

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of this study is to derive key strategic implications for enhancing pandemic preparedness and response, based on an evaluation of Busan’s COVID-19 management and insights from expert consultations.
Methods
A comprehensive review was conducted of Busan’s COVID-19 response, integrating findings from the overall assessment and expert advisory panel consultations. The analysis focused on four domains: governance, resource management, organizational readiness, and operational continuity of public health services during pandemics.
Results
The analysis identified strategic priorities, including: readiness for medical response during pandemics, prevention of disruption to ongoing public health center operations during infectious disease outbreaks, efficient management of medical resources, organizational and workforce preparedness, and establishment of robust communication and security systems. Actionable improvements were noted in pandemic governance, resource and budget allocation, communication, and training, informed by prior large-scale pandemic experiences. Expert recommendations emphasized developing comprehensive management systems for infection-vulnerable facilities, expanding dedicated infectious disease units, securing full-time personnel to ensure professionalism and sustainability, strengthening workforce capacity, enhancing training and drills, and formulating proactive response manuals.
Conclusions
Strategic, systematic preparation-grounded in lessons from COVID-19 is essential for effective future pandemic response. Strengthening governance, ensuring operational continuity, optimizing resource allocation, and sustaining professional capacity are critical to building resilience in public health systems.

Keyword

Pandemic Preparedness; COVID-19; Busan; Public Health Response; Infectious Disease Control; Governance; Medical Resource Management