Stakeholder's response to COVID-19 using Protective Action Decision Model: Perception of Saudi citizens

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Communication
• Risk Perception

Background:

• Understanding public perception of stakeholders is crucial for effective pandemic response.
• Limited research exists on Saudi citizens' views regarding COVID-19 protective actions and stakeholder influence.
• The Protective Action Decision Model (PADM) provides a framework for assessing these perceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Saudi citizens' perceptions of community stakeholders during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To evaluate the relationship between stakeholder perceptions and the implementation of protective actions.
• To identify key predictors of protective action efficacy using the PADM.

Main Methods:

• Survey administered to 329 employees and students at King Abdulaziz University.
• Respondents rated the efficacy and implementation of six protective actions (e.g., mask-wearing, handwashing).
• Stakeholders (Ministry of Health, media, family, etc.) were rated on trust, responsibility, knowledge, and reliance for information.

Main Results:

• Perceived response efficacy was the strongest predictor of implementing protective actions against COVID-19.
• Perceptions of the Ministry of Health were the most significant predictor of perceived response efficacy.
• Trust, perceived responsibility, knowledge, and reliance varied across different stakeholders.

Conclusions:

• Public health strategies should focus on enhancing perceived response efficacy to encourage protective behaviors.
• Strengthening trust and communication with the Ministry of Health is vital for effective pandemic management in Saudi Arabia.
• Government agencies must leverage these findings for improved planning and execution during future health crises.