COVID-19 and Oxygen: Selecting Supply Options in LMICs That Balance Immediate Needs with Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness

ABSTRACT

From the Document Medical oxygen therapy is a core part of the treatment of patients with severe COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019]. Particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where supplies are likely to be inadequate in the face of the pandemic, boosting access to medical oxygen can save lives. Much of the policy debate regarding COVID-19 medical equipment focuses on the question of which form of patient respiratory support is effective in low-resources settings. However, irrespective of the specific form of respiratory support used, the long-term and cost-effective functioning of all forms of oxygen therapy requires an appropriate system to supply oxygen to hospitals. The sustainable and affordable supply of medical oxygen to hospitals has long been neglected in health services, especially in LMICs. With the increased attention to oxygen supply brought by COVID-19, there is an opportunity to build adequate infrastructure to deliver oxygen in a systematic manner.COVID-19 (Disease);Medical supplies