Predictors of Willingness to Participate in COVID‐19 Screening Testing from a Pilot School Survey in the United States

• DOI: 10.1111/josh.13396
• Publication Date: 2023-10-23T06:06:13Z
• Authors: Miguella Mark‐Carew; Megan Swanson; Brian Eller; Theresa Cullen; Manuel O. Valenzuela; Monica LaBelle; Neela Persad; Lisa C. Barrios; Leigh E. Szucs
• Keywords: Demographics; Pandemic; School district

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND COVID‐19 screening testing (ST) can detect asymptomatic or pre‐symptomatic cases, allowing for prompt identification of cases and close contacts. This study examined parents' school staffs' knowledge attitudes toward to a pilot school‐based ST program in district southern Arizona. METHODS In May 2021, online surveys parents staff were administered examine impacts the pandemic. Unweighted percent estimates calculated, bivariate differences by demographics. Associations assessed using chi‐square tests logistic regression. RESULTS The survey had response rates 10% (606/6085) 22% (187/849) among staff, respectively. Approximately one‐third responding (35%) would already allow their child participate ST, 37% not participate; 28% unsure. Among 46% 33% not; 21% top concern (38%) was taking job‐related leave if positive. CONCLUSION Schools work balance needs students, families, implementing supportive flexible policies practices founded on buy‐in acceptance from communities