Readiness of Medical Institutions, Academics and Practitioners for the Covid-19 Outbreak

Abstract

Objective: To assess the readiness of medical institutions (academics and practitioners) to the COVID-19 outbreak in Pakistan.  Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. Two medical institutes were contacted in Sind and Punjab through the Vice Chancellors. Faculty members were asked to fill the questionnaire online. Convenience sampling was done, with no fixed sample size. Questionnaires were sent as google forms. Duration of the study was 4 months (Aug 2020 – Nov 2020).   Results: Out of 111 participants, there were 64 females and 47 males. Clinical faculty gave more correct answers on major warning signs of COVID-19 (35.6%) as compared to the basic science faculty (16.7%). Private sector is more prepared to deal with COVID in terms of availability of infection control materials and following of SOPs, however, public sector showed improved numbers (59.1%) for “Performing refresher training for HCP on infection control guidelines” as compared to private sector (33.7%). Total subjective score on IES range from 25 – 30 out of 75 in different groups which showed moderate stress.  The two most practiced life style modifications were avoiding crowded places and frequently washing the hands. The thought of passing on infection to the loved ones was found to be most worrisome for them.  Conclusion: The pandemic is a source of stress for healthcare workers. The institutional readiness for dealing with the pandemic needs consideration at institutional, government and policy level for better equipping the healthcare facilities with the infection control materials and PPEs.