ABSTRACT
The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a major public health issue;it is the greatest challenge facing humanity in the 21st century, and a sharp increase in the prevalence of the disease has resulted in an increase in morbidity and mortality in many countries. The global health community, in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus, has been taking precautionary measures to address the crisis and alleviate the economic impact of the pandemic on healthcare services. Global information exchange is vital for health systems to meet these challenges. Health systems, even those in developed countries, appear to have been unprepared to meet this challenge, partly because of pre-existing problems. This study identifies some important features of health systems around the world, and the policies implemented by those responsible for addressing this global health crisis caused by SARSCoV-2. In addition, it highlights the government decisions and mechanisms that were implemented to strengthen and finance health systems, and to mitigate the cost of the pandemic. The response of health systems to the requirements created by the coronavirus pandemic shows adaptation to successive changes, allowing recovery and satisfaction of their needs for the protection of public health.Copyright © Athens Medical Society.