LAUSR

Key Points Question What were the characteristics and outcomes of patients admitted to COVID-19 treatment centers during Zambia’s first 4 COVID-19 waves? Findings In this cohort study of 3876 patients, across-wave analyses of data, including identification of risk factors for in-hospital mortality in Zambia, were in line with data reported elsewhere. Within-wave analyses revealed a pattern in which it appeared that admission of higher-risk patients was prioritized during periods of surging demand for health services during COVID-19 waves. Meaning These findings suggest that increased efforts to expand health system capacity and improve health system resiliency in Zambia and other countries with resource-limited health systems are warranted.