Stress, Resilience, Moral Distress, and Depression–Anxiety Among Oncology Care Providers in Colombia During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the impact of COVID-19 on oncology care providers’ self-reported perceived stress, resilience, moral distress, anxiety, and depression in Colombia. MethodsDuring 2020, a cross-sectional survey was carried out among oncology care providers. The Perceived Stress Scale, Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Moral Distress Thermometer, and the PHQ-4 were used. Basic socio-demographic and occupational characteristics are described, and bivariate and multivariate analyses were done to investigate their association with a high PHQ-4 score (>6). Results148 participants (mean age 43.1 years, 54.6% women, 72.3% medical specialists) were recruited. The major source of stress was not being infected, but spreading COVID-19. A low prevalence of depression/anxiety was found, as well as low resilience and moral distress. Women reported lower resilience and higher depression/anxiety. History of depression and lack of adequate coping strategies were associated with higher levels of depression/anxiety. ConclusionsThe impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of oncology care providers was mild, probably due to the protection for oncology patients during this period; however, women reported a greater impact. The association of demographic and clinical variables with higher levels of depression/anxiety should inform further preventive measures to reduce the impact of prolonged public health crises on healthcare providers’ mental health.