Understanding the contribution of primary and community services to health system resilience during the COVID19 Pandemic in Aotearoa, New Zealand: a qualitative interview study

Aotearoa New Zealand managed COVID-19 effectively, but the pandemic exposed areas for improvement in health system resilience. The government demonstrated absorptive resilience through swift actions, including lockdowns and clear communication, while SPs exhibited adaptive resilience by modifying service protocols. Knowledge gained from this study can contribute to transformative resilience. Long-term strategic changes are necessary to improve emergency planning, such as developing a unified framework to inform a 'Priority List', enhancing workforce capacity, and addressing digital exclusion. These steps can strengthen health system robustness and preparedness for future crises.