PHYSIATRY DURING COVID-19: A SURVEY BASED ANALYSIS

Abstract

Introduction: The declaration of COVID 19 pandemic by WHO on 11th March 2020, is the dening global health crisis of the past 100 years. The following Nationwide survey was conducted to ascertain the sea changes this pandemic has brought in the physiatrist practice, patient management and preparing oneself to the challenges of rehabilitation in the POST COVID world. The survey covers the role and importance of social media in medical education and consultation in a POST COVID world. It also sheds light on the nancial implications and personal lifestyle changes that physiatrists are witnessing. A Google form comprising of 74 questions, divided in 3 se Material &Methods: ctions, was used to gather the requisite data on :- A) PRECOVID practice, management and lifestyle; B) Life during COVID pandemic; and C) Anticipated changes in POST COVID era. The survey was circulated to 400 physiatrist via various interactive groups who have been practicing either independently or in govt setups and associated hospitals nationwide. They were requested to submit their responses in a period of 30 days. In PRECOVID era an average Result: physiatrist was nely balancing his profession, personal lifestyle, learning and recreation. The LOCKDOWN clamped their practice which lead to nancial drought but hardly made a dent in productivity by engaging in webinars, reading and researching. The POST COVID time demands implementation of newer safety protocols like changes in setup, regulating the patient trafc, limiting daily procedures, engaging in distance learning through virtual conferences, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and constructing proper protocols for pulmonary, neurological and musculoskeletal rehabilitation programs for patients post recovery from COVID19, especially the patients weaning from ventilators. Conclusion: The effect of COVID19 demands major change in physiatrist professional practice like limiting consultation, following safety protocols, COVID testing, preparing consolidated program for POSTCOVID sequel. Social media is rightly poised to be a major tool for education, consultation, marketing and awareness. The role of teleconsultation needs to be reprised, recognised and regularised. Webinars and virtual conferences will nd more takers in future.