Assessment of Healthcare Service Provision to Pediatric Patients With Chronic Diseases During the COVID-19 Lockdown

Abstract

Background: The Coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic’s impact on essential health services is of great concern. The most important step in managing any patient with chronic disease is compliance with follow-up visits. Aim: This study aims to assess healthcare services during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown regarding chronic patient visits and care, as well as to assess patient satisfaction with the provision of healthcare services during the lockdown period. Methods: a cross-sectional study was performed at Cairo University Specialized Children Hospital, Egypt, through an interview questionnaire with the caregivers of chronic patients about the health care services throughout the COVID-19 pandemic from December 2020 to July 2021. Results: More than 60% were satisfied with the healthcare service provision during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Satisfaction toward medical sub-specialties was significantly higher than that of surgical ones. Patients who attended for follow-up markedly decreased during the lockdown. Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare service provision was negatively affected. Follow-up of chronic patients and continued medical care were challenging points.

Keywords

• COVID-19; pandemic; health services; pediatrics; chronic patients