Decision-making, training and support:Lessons from public health response to COVID-19 in Ireland

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the critical need for a rapid and effective public health emergency response to such crises. This study investigates the public health response to COVID-19 in Ireland, focusing on decision-making, recruitment, training, and specialised support for emergency responders. METHODS: Using a mixed-methods approach, we analysed data from surveys of volunteer contact tracers recruited in the early days of the pandemic, from government reports, and from the Health Service Executive (HSE) COVID-19 Contact Management Programme work instructions that evolved over the course of the pandemic response. RESULTS: Our findings reveal that the public health response in Ireland was moderately rapid and decisive with innovative recruitment strategies, targeted training programmes and the development of specialised support for frontline responders. While volunteer contact tracers were quickly upskilled, they required ongoing expert support on an evolving IT system and for effective clinical and public health responses. We highlight key lessons learned, including the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, ongoing training and support, and effective communication strategies. CONCLUSIONS: Our study has important policy implications for public health emergency preparedness and response, which include the need for greater investment in training and support for public health professionals, the development of effective communication channels, and the establishment of a coordinated national response system. By implementing these recommendations policymakers can better prepare for, and respond to, future public health emergencies ultimately improving the health and wellbeing of the population. The key lessons presented from this analysis point to the importance of forward planning for early intervention, rather than reactive responses in times of crises. KEY MESSAGES: • Improving emergency preparedness by investing in training for public health professionals, developing effective communication channels, and establishing a coordinated national response system. • The key lessons presented from this analysis point to the importance of forward planning for early intervention, rather than reactive responses in times of crises.