A Cross-sectional Study of Primary-care Physicians in Singapore on Their Concerns and Preparedness for an Avian Influenza Outbreak

Abstract

Introduction: During an avian influenza (AI) pandemic, primary-care physicians (PCPs) are expected to play key roles in the prevention and control of the disease. Different groups of PCPs could have different concerns and preparedness level. We assessed the concerns, perceived impact and preparedness for an outbreak among PCPs in Singapore. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey of PCPs working in private practice (n = 200) and public clinics (n = 205) from March to June 2006 with an anonymous self-administered questionnaire on concerns (12- items), perceived impact (10 items) and preparedness (10 items) for an outbreak. Results: Two hundred and eighty-five PCPs responded – 149 (response rate: 72.7%) public and 136 (response rate: 67.3%) private. The majority were concerned about risk to their health from their occupation (95.0%) and falling ill with AI (89.7%). Most (82.5%) accepted the risk and only 33 (11.8%) would consider stopping work. For perceived impact, most felt that people would avoid them (69.6%) and their families (54.1%). The majority (81.3%) expected an increased workload and feeling more stressed at work (86.9%). For preparedness, 78.7% felt personally prepared for an outbreak. Public PCPs were more likely to be involved in infection-control activities and felt that their workplaces were prepared. Conclusions: Most PCPs felt personally prepared for an outbreak but were concerned about their exposure to AI and falling ill. Other concerns included social ostracism for themselves and their families. Public PCPs appeared to have a higher level of preparation. Addressing concerns and improving level of preparedness are crucial to strengthen the primary-care response for any AI outbreak. Key words: Impact, Bird flu, Planning, Response

Psychological Distress Reported by Primary Care Physicians in China During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Another key finding of this research is that the majority (>90%) of PCP participants felt personally prepared for a COVID-19 pandemic regarding the theoretical knowledge of COVID-19 (17), use of personal protective equipment, preparedness plan in working place, and responsibility to participate. Wong and colleagues (12,24) also reported a high proportion of preparedness toward avian influenza outbreak. This is independent of the efforts of the individuals, medical institution, government, and WHO.…”

To Kill a Mocking Bird Flu?

“…17 The world is quite far from achieving the noble goals of the Alma-Ata declaration of 1978 by WHO, which recognised health as a fundamental human right of all countries and not just of the wealthy ones. 18 Moving beyond the global perspective of avian influenza by the WHO leadership 19 are complementary articles from Singapore 20,21 and Hong Kong 22 about preparations for pandemic influenza. The SARS crisis affected both cities drastically, and many valuable lessons have been learnt from that episode.…”