Pandemic Preparation and Response in Long-Term Care Hospitals: Lessons from COVID-19 Outbreaks and Preparedness for Future Infectious Diseases.

Background: This study aimed to analyze the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) response in long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) and establish a preparedness and management framework for addressing novel infectious diseases.

Methods: A national survey was conducted in Korea between June 19 and June 30, 2023. Using an anonymous online questionnaire, the survey gathered information on the general characteristics of participating hospitals, preparedness for infectious diseases in LTCHs prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, preparedness for in-house outbreaks during the COVID-19 pandemic, experiences of in-house COVID-19 outbreaks, and a section related to vaccines and treatments.