Title
Search
All Issues
24
Year: 2021  Vol. 25   Num. 1  - Jan/Mar
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1722254
Print:
Original Article
Versão em PDF PDF in English TextoText in English
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Physicians Working in the Head and Neck Field
Author(s):
Rui Imamura, Ricardo F. Bento, Leandro L. Matos, William N. William Junior, Gustavo N. Marta, Aline L. F. Chaves, Gilberto de Castro Junior, Luiz P. Kowalski
Key words:
coronavirus - professional practice - occupational groups - health personnel - work
Abstract:

Background With the COVID-19 pandemic, the clinical practice of physicians who work in the head and neck field in Brazil dropped dramatically. The sustained impact of the pandemic is not known. Methods An anonymous online survey was distributed to Brazilian otolaryngologists, head and neck surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, asking about their clinical practice in the third to fourth months of the pandemic. Results The survey was completed by 446 specialists. About 40% reported reduction of more than 75% in outpatient care. A reduction of 90% to 100% in airway endoscopies was reported by 50% of the responders, and the same rate of reduction regarding surgeries (pediatric or nasosinusal) was reported by 80% of them. Family income decreased by 50%, and the psychological burden on physicians was considerable. The availability of personal protective equipment and safety precautions were limited, especially in the public sector. Conclusion COVID-19 is still impacting the head and neck field, and safety concerns may hinder the prompt resumption of elective care.

  Print:

 

All right reserved. Prohibited the reproduction of papers
without previous authorization of FORL © 1997- 2024