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Objectives: This study assessed the effect of COVID-19 on the profitability and employment of regional hub public hospitals and its variation by hospital location. Methods: Data from 35 public hospitals operating between 2018 and 2022 were analyzed using a generalized linear regression model. Profitability was assessed as a financial measure, while employment measures included the number of doctors, nurses, healthworkers, administrators, and new employees per 100 beds, and the average doctor's salary. Results: Operating revenues declined while expenses increased, reducing operating income and margins. The number of nurses per 100 beds increased, whereas the number of other staff members did not change significantly. Hospitals in the capital region experienced a greater decline in profitability. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has negatively influenced the profitability of regional hub public hospitals without reducing employment. The effects also varied between hospital locations.