Perceptions of Romanian Physicians on Lockdowns for COVID-19 Prevention

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Medical Sociology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare systems and societal norms globally.
• Romania implemented lockdown measures to control the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
• Understanding healthcare professionals' evolving perceptions is crucial for effective pandemic response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the dynamic changes in Romanian physicians' perceptions of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact.
• To analyze shifts in attitudes towards protective measures, treatments, and vaccines over a one-month period.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted to inform questionnaire design.
• A 30-item online questionnaire was administered twice, approximately one month apart, to Romanian physicians.
• Voluntary responses from 214 physicians initially and 199 upon second release were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Physicians' confidence in protective measures increased (31.3% to 46.7%), and separation from household members decreased (36.9% to 22.1%).
• Perceptions of rejection remained largely unchanged (22.4% to 24.6%).
• Belief in the efficacy of treatments like hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir significantly decreased, while initial skepticism towards COVID-19 vaccines lessened.

Conclusions:

• Within a month, Romanian physicians demonstrated a reduced inclination towards unproven COVID-19 treatments.
• Confidence in protective measures rose, correlating with relaxed lockdown policies.
• The study highlights the dynamic nature of physician perceptions during the evolving COVID-19 pandemic.