Doctors Perception of the Use of Hydroxychloroquine as Prophylaxis for COVID-19 Infection

Abstract

Background: The National Task force constituted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and various International agencies has recommended the use of Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) as prophylaxis for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This measure was taken because of the urgent need to protect high-risk individuals like Health Care Workers (HCW) from contracting COVID-19. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the awareness, attitudes, and practices on using HCQ as prophylaxis to prevent COVID-19 infection. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the doctors working in Dr RML Hospital, New Delhi, India, a tertiary care public hospital involved in the care of COVID-19 patients. The invitation to participate was electronically circulated, and the consenting participants were allowed to access an online survey. The survey had a total of 23 questions that were designed to understand the awareness, perception, and practices of doctors regarding the use of HCQ as prophylaxis in COVID-19. Results: About 147 doctors participated in this survey. The major source of knowledge regarding HCQ prophylaxis was quoted as regulatory agencies (44%), particularly ICMR, and the main indication was reported as being a healthcare worker (60%). Most of the participants (91%) believed that the HCQ effect is not clear and felt more scientific data regarding the use of HCQ as prophylaxis for COVID-19. But many doctors (51%) still recommend using HCQ to their colleagues. Conclusion: In this study, we observed that most doctors were aware of the recommendations regarding the HCQ prophylaxis in COVID-19 and had good adherence to therapy but felt the need for more concrete scientific evidence for using HCQ.