The Psychological Effects of Screening Patients at Risk for COVID-19 on Primary Care Professionals in an Ambulatory Setting

This study investigated the psychological effects of screening patients at risk for COVID-19 on primary care professionals in an ambulatory setting.

A 13 question survey was administered to 24 primary care professionals in an ambulatory setting between designs: A 13 question survey was administered to 24 primary care professionals in an ambulatory setting between June 4^th and July 9^th. There were yes/no questions, checkbox questions, and an open-ended question focusing on depression and anxiety symptoms. Twenty-four practitioners completed the survey.

The survey response rate was 69%. Analysis of the data showed a strong correlation between seeing patients at risk for COVID-19 and depression and anxiety symptoms among primary care professionals of the respondents, 45.8% felt that they had more trouble concentrating, remembering details, or making decisions. A total of 70.8% of respondents experienced increased fatigue and sleep disturbances, 54.2% felt unexplained irritability or anger, and the same number of respondents experienced fluctuations in appetite and weight. 20.8% of respondents lost pleasure in doing the things they enjoy and 41.7% felt detached from family and friends, and 50% of respondents have had trouble sleeping. 75% of respondents have felt nervousness, restlessness, or have felt tense.

There is a strong psychological effect of screening patients at risk of COVID-19 on primary care professionals, as evidenced by the presence of numerous symptoms of depression and anxiety. Better screening and timely intervention for depression and anxiety among this cohort is warranted to maintain their well-being and allow for the optimization of their patients’ care.