This study examines the long-term psychological and occupational effects of providing healthcare during the 2003 SARS outbreak on healthcare workers (HCWs) in Toronto and Hamilton, Canada. HCWs in Toronto, where SARS patients were treated, reported significantly higher levels of burnout, psychological distress, and posttraumatic stress compared to those in Hamilton, a control group. The study found that perceived adequacy of training and support had a protective effect, while maladaptive coping styles and other individual factors contributed to the negative outcomes. The results highlight the importance of effective staff support and training in preparing for future infectious disease outbreaks, such as pandemic influenza or bioterrorism. The study also suggests that interventions targeting maladaptive coping and enhancing perceived support may help mitigate the adverse effects of such events.This study examines the long-term psychological and occupational effects of providing healthcare during the 2003 SARS outbreak on healthcare workers (HCWs) in Toronto and Hamilton, Canada. HCWs in Toronto, where SARS patients were treated, reported significantly higher levels of burnout, psychological distress, and posttraumatic stress compared to those in Hamilton, a control group. The study found that perceived adequacy of training and support had a protective effect, while maladaptive coping styles and other individual factors contributed to the negative outcomes. The results highlight the importance of effective staff support and training in preparing for future infectious disease outbreaks, such as pandemic influenza or bioterrorism. The study also suggests that interventions targeting maladaptive coping and enhancing perceived support may help mitigate the adverse effects of such events.