Mental health among outpatient reproductive health care providers during the US COVID-19 epidemic

• DOI: 10.1186/s12978-021-01102-1
• Publication Date: 2021-02-24T12:03:18Z
• Authors: Alison B. Comfort; Paul J. Krezanoski; Lavanya Rao; Alison El Ayadi; Alexander C. Tsai; Suzan Goodman; Cynthia C. Harper
• Keywords: Worry; Depression; Outpatient clinic

Abstract Introduction Both inpatient and outpatient providers may be at increased risk of stress, anxiety depression from their roles as health during the COVID-19 epidemic. This study explores how US epidemic has feelings among reproductive providers. Methods We conducted a survey with open-ended responses across U.S. engaged in contraceptive care to collect data on experiences The population included physicians, nurses, social workers, other professions [n = 288]. Data were collected April 21st–June 24th 2020. used content analysis free text reporting or depression. Results Two-thirds (184) reported stress one-third (96) related provision major sources due patient care, worry about becoming infected infecting family members, work- home-related concerns, experiencing provider burnout, fear unknown. Concerns quality providers’ changing responsibilities, lack personal protective equipment, difficulty coping co-worker illness absence all contributed anxiety. Worries unemployment childcare responsibilities also highlighted. Providers attributed feeling overwhelmed, being unable focus, lacking sleep, worrying Conclusions are significant anxiety, Policy programmatic urgently needed address widespread adverse mental consequences this providers, including US. Plan English summary 21st June 24th, 2020 workers professions. asked questions understand why and/or Major highlights that