Safety Concerns for Laboratory Professionals in Rural Practice Settings During Covid-19

Abstract

Abstract Introduction/Objective The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the health risks of laboratory professionals. This study aimed to understand the impact increased workload and decreased staffing levels have, specifically in rural areas where clinical laboratory testing is performed, and to document how these changes affect the wellbeing of laboratory professionals. Methods/Case Report The study integrated responses from a cross-sectional study of laboratory professionals which employed an anonymous electronic survey deployed between November of 2021 and February of 2022. Specific items asked if participants had worked in clinical laboratories since the public health emergency started, if they were concerned regarding Covid-19 transmission, adequate staffing, and support at their workplace. A subsequent qualitative study including focus groups and an interview questionnaire targeted laboratory professionals working in rural laboratories in four states of the Mid-west to further understand any immediate health impacts on wellbeing for these professionals. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) Among 438 participants in the survey that indicated they worked in the laboratory since March of 2020, 20% said they worked in non-metro US counties (RUCC 4-9). Among the non-metro laboratory professionals, 70% indicated that staffing levels in their laboratories were inadequate, with over 50% of them expressing concern about contracting Covid-19 at their workplace, and 53% saying they had been told to work despite a possible or confirmed exposure to the virus. The analysis of thirteen focus groups (N=59) and qualitative written interviews (n=15) found that workplace changes impacted the health of laboratory professionals in rural areas. These included lack of availability of laboratory equipment and increased work hours, which increased self-reported levels of stress. Recommendations for improvement included flexibility in scheduling of hours and proper compensation for overtime work. Conclusion Working in rural clinical laboratories during the Covid-19 pandemic exposed laboratory professionals to stress that was exacerbated by a work environment operating in scarcity.