Deaths of doctors and nursing staff by COVID-19 in Brazil: a sociological approach

Area of Science:

• Sociology of Professions
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic led to significant mortality among healthcare professionals globally.
• Brazil experienced a particularly high death rate among doctors, nurses, technicians, and nursing assistants.
• Understanding the factors contributing to this mortality is crucial for protecting frontline workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the high mortality rates of healthcare workers in Brazil due to COVID-19.
• To examine the contributing factors through the lens of the sociology of professions.
• To provide insights into the past, present, and future of frontline patient care providers.

Main Methods:

• Data sourced from the Federal Councils of Medicine (CFM) and Nursing (Cofen).
• Analysis incorporated data from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation's (Fiocruz) death inventory study.
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis informed by the sociology of professions framework.

Main Results:

• Identified key issues and nuances contributing to the elevated mortality of healthcare workers.
• Highlighted the vulnerabilities of doctors, nurses, technicians, and nursing assistants on the front lines.
• Provided an unprecedented analysis of the socio-professional factors impacting worker survival rates.

Conclusions:

• The study offers critical understanding of the COVID-19 impact on Brazil's healthcare workforce.
• Findings contribute to safeguarding the well-being and future of frontline healthcare professionals.
• Emphasizes the need for policy and support systems informed by the sociology of professions.