The COVID-19 pandemic has tested healthcare systems worldwide in unprecedented ways. Hospitals and clinics were pushed beyond their limits, with healthcare workers facing severe shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential medical supplies. In many cases, medical staff had to reuse PPE or rely on makeshift alternatives, increasing their own risk of infection. These shortages highlighted significant vulnerabilities in the global supply chain, as many countries found themselves competing for limited resources, sometimes with little success. In addition to supply chain issues, the pandemic exposed other weaknesses within healthcare infrastructures, such as the lack of surge capacity and the need for improved staffing flexibility. Some hospitals struggled to accommodate the sudden influx of patients, particularly in areas with a high concentration of cases. Meanwhile, healthcare workers faced burnout due to the relentless demands and emotional toll of the crisis. This strain led to many governments rethinking healthcare policies and prioritizing investments in public health preparedness. However, one silver lining has been the accelerated adoption of telemedicine, which allowed patients to receive care without physically visiting healthcare facilities. Telemedicine has proven to be a critical tool in maintaining continuity of care, especially for patients with chronic conditions or those who need mental health support. As the pandemic evolves, it is essential to examine these lessons and work toward strengthening healthcare systems to be more resilient and adaptable in the face of future pandemics.