ABSTRACT Aim(s): To qualitatively assess and theoretically understand the needs of military healthcare workers during a pandemic. Design: This study employed a descriptive qualitative design. Methods: A retrospective record review of existing hospital data of 34 psychosocial group interventions held during the pandemic period was conducted. The data was analysed using a hybrid approach to thematic analysis, incorporating both inductive and deductive elements. Data Sources: Reports, case notes and attendance registers detailing the accounts of 208 healthcare worker group intervention participants were included in the study. Results: The pandemic most frequently threatened basic human needs at the foundational level of safety and security relative to other higher order needs, such as self-actualisation. As the pandemic progressed, however, some of the basic needs were met, freeing up the healthcare workers to focus more on the higher order needs. Results further highlighted that pre-existing needs which remained unfulfilled during normal working periods mostly amplified esteem needs, in addition to the other needs, during the crisis period. Conclusion: Maslow’s approach provides a useful framework for understanding and prioritising the demands military healthcare workers face both during regular and crisis periods. The pandemic illustrated the importance of providing for the foundational needs of healthcare workers during regular periods, so that they better meet the demands when a crisis arises. Implications for the profession and/or patient care: It is recommended that within the military healthcare system, an atmosphere that allows for the expression and continuous meeting of healthcare worker needs is cultivated, enabling the identification of areas of improvement. This may enhance the development of relevant strategies to facilitate enhanced patient care. Impact: This study provides the opportunity for the military community to reflect on and improve needs that healthcare workers experience in general and those they experience as a result of being part of the organisation. Reporting Method: We have adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines with the Standard for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) reporting method. Patient or Public Contribution: Military healthcare workers were involved as the study population. Hospital management was provided with feedback on the main findings and possible improvement strategies.