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de Leeuw R, Huirne JAF, Rositto C, Mabrouk M, Barri P, Bongers M, Thurkow A, El-Balat A, Vlahos N, Brolmann H. The added value of a face-to-face pan-European course-what makes it worth it? Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1387108. [PMID: 38903824 PMCID: PMC11188760 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1387108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Over the past decade, digital education has seen widespread adoption, particularly accentuated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The post-COVID era has further emphasized the advantages of digital education in terms of cost, availability, and sustainability. However, concerns regarding the efficacy of digital education, particularly in skills-based learning and the absence of social interaction, have been raised. This paper will look at the added value of international, face-to-face, skills-based courses. Method This study evaluates the potential added value of face-to-face international skills courses using the European "Gynecology Experts Training for Upcoming Professionals" (GET-UP) course. Focus group discussions were conducted with participants and faculty members to explore beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions regarding face-to-face learning. Qualitative analysis was performed using thematic analysis to identify domains of added value. Results The GET-UP course, conducted over 4 days with a diverse European faculty and participants, highlighted several added-value domains. Themes including diversity, role models, preparation, live interaction, and community emerged from the analysis, emphasizing the significance of face-to-face interaction in enriching the learning experience beyond attaining learning goals. Discussion The study underscores the importance of face-to-face interaction in educational settings, offering insights into diverse teaching methods, role modeling opportunities, enhanced preparation, live interactions, and fostering a sense of community. While digital education continues to evolve with interactive features, this study suggests that the inherent pressure and dynamics of face-to-face learning provide unique benefits that may not be easily replicated in digital environments. Future research should investigate and validate these findings further to inform educational practices effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert de Leeuw
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Judith A. F. Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Christiano Rositto
- Casa di Cura Santa Famiglia, Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Mohammed Mabrouk
- University College of London Hospitals (UCLH), London, United Kingdom
- The Cleveland Clinic, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Ahmed El-Balat
- Spital Uster, Uster, Switzerland
- Universitätsspital Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Nikon Vlahos
- Athens Medical School, Aretaieion University Hospital, Athina, Greece
| | - Hans Brolmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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Mazzochi K, Aldridge E, Hackett L, Miller J, Leach D, Lukins J, Jordan P, Buntine P. Medical student deployment to a single metropolitan hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic: A mixed methods analysis. Emerg Med Australas 2023; 35:960-967. [PMID: 37433573 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.14273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore student and staff satisfaction with the use of medical students as a surge workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD We conducted a mixed methods analysis of staff and student experiences with the medical student workforce at a single metropolitan ED over an 8-month period between December 2021 and July 2022, using an online survey tool. Students were invited to complete the survey fortnightly, whereas senior medical and nursing staff were invited weekly. RESULTS There was a 32% response rate for surveys sent to medical student assistants (MSAs) and 18% and 15% for medical and nursing staff, respectively. Most students felt well prepared and supported in the role and would recommend it to other students. They reported that the role allowed them to gain experience and confidence within the ED, especially after much of their learning had moved online throughout the pandemic. Senior nurses and doctors found MSAs to be useful members of the team, largely through their assistance with task completion. Both staff and students recommended a more comprehensive orientation, changes to the supervision model and increased clarity in the students' scope of practice. CONCLUSIONS The results of the present study provide insight into the use of medical students as an emergency surge workforce. Responses from medical students and staff suggested that the project was beneficial for both groups as well as for overall departmental performance. These findings are likely to be translatable beyond the COVID-19 pandemic setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn Mazzochi
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emogene Aldridge
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liam Hackett
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joseph Miller
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Leach
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jane Lukins
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Jordan
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Buntine
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Eastern Health Emergency Medicine Program, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Dedeilia A, Papapanou M, Papadopoulos AN, Karela NR, Androutsou A, Mitsopoulou D, Nikolakea M, Konstantinidis C, Papageorgakopoulou M, Sideris M, Johnson EO, Fitzpatrick S, Cometto G, Campbell J, Sotiropoulos MG. Health worker education during the COVID-19 pandemic: global disruption, responses and lessons for the future-a systematic review and meta-analysis. HUMAN RESOURCES FOR HEALTH 2023; 21:13. [PMID: 36829158 PMCID: PMC9951171 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-023-00799-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis identified early evidence quantifying the disruption to the education of health workers by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuing policy responses and their outcomes. METHODS Following a pre-registered protocol and PRISMA/AMSTAR-2 guidelines, we systematically screened MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, CENTRAL, clinicaltrials.gov and Google Scholar from January 2020 to July 2022. We pooled proportion estimates via random-effects meta-analyses and explored subgroup differences by gender, occupational group, training stage, WHO regions/continents, and study end-year. We assessed risk of bias (Newcastle-Ottawa scale for observational studies, RοB2 for randomized controlled trials [RCT]) and rated evidence certainty using GRADE. RESULTS Of the 171 489 publications screened, 2 249 were eligible, incorporating 2 212 observational studies and 37 RCTs, representing feedback from 1 109 818 learners and 22 204 faculty. The sample mostly consisted of undergraduates, medical doctors, and studies from institutions in Asia. Perceived training disruption was estimated at 71.1% (95% confidence interval 67.9-74.2) and learner redeployment at 29.2% (25.3-33.2). About one in three learners screened positive for anxiety (32.3%, 28.5-36.2), depression (32.0%, 27.9-36.2), burnout (38.8%, 33.4-44.3) or insomnia (30.9%, 20.8-41.9). Policy responses included shifting to online learning, innovations in assessment, COVID-19-specific courses, volunteerism, and measures for learner safety. For outcomes of policy responses, most of the literature related to perceptions and preferences. More than two-thirds of learners (75.9%, 74.2-77.7) were satisfied with online learning (postgraduates more than undergraduates), while faculty satisfaction rate was slightly lower (71.8%, 66.7-76.7). Learners preferred an in-person component: blended learning 56.0% (51.2-60.7), face-to-face 48.8% (45.4-52.1), and online-only 32.0% (29.3-34.8). They supported continuation of the virtual format as part of a blended system (68.1%, 64.6-71.5). Subgroup differences provided valuable insights despite not resolving the considerable heterogeneity. All outcomes were assessed as very-low-certainty evidence. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic has severely disrupted health worker education, inflicting a substantial mental health burden on learners. Its impacts on career choices, volunteerism, pedagogical approaches and mental health of learners have implications for educational design, measures to protect and support learners, faculty and health workers, and workforce planning. Online learning may achieve learner satisfaction as part of a short-term solution or integrated into a blended model in the post-pandemic future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Dedeilia
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
| | - Michail Papapanou
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Society of Junior Doctors (SJD), Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas N Papadopoulos
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nina-Rafailia Karela
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Anastasia Androutsou
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Mitsopoulou
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Melina Nikolakea
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Konstantinidis
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Manthia Papageorgakopoulou
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece
- School of Medicine, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Michail Sideris
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Giorgio Cometto
- Health Workforce Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jim Campbell
- Health Workforce Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marinos G Sotiropoulos
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
- HEALth Workforce Education (HEAL-Edu) Study Group, Athens, Greece.
- Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital & Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, WACC721, Boston, MA, 02114, USA.
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Michenka P, Fialová L, Šlegerová L, Marx D. Analysis of Obligatory Involvement of Medical Students in Pandemic Response in the Czech Republic: Competencies, Experiences, and Legal Implications. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1605187. [PMID: 36618435 PMCID: PMC9812944 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1605187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Medical students in the Czech Republic were mandated by the law to take part in the COVID-19 pandemic response in order to expand healthcare capacity. Our study aimed to analyze student's competencies defined in the legislation and compare them with competencies assigned to them in clinical settings during their deployment. Methods: Online survey with statistical analysis of collected data. Results: The survey was completed by 997 respondents. A major convergence between the system of credentials defined in the legal framework and the competencies that students performed were identified. Conclusion: Medical students represented a valuable resource for addressing shortages of qualified healthcare staff in critical situation. However, the system of competencies and credentials must be aligned with the educational framework to clearly define acquisition of competencies during the course of medical studies and the legal framework regulating students' deployment must ensure consistency of actual and formal competencies in order to guarantee high standards of care and safety of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petr Michenka
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia,*Correspondence: Petr Michenka,
| | | | - Lenka Šlegerová
- Institute of Economic Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - David Marx
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D, Bazan D, Baum E. Volunteering in the front line of the Ukrainian refugee crisis: A brief report from Poland. Front Public Health 2022; 10. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.979751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to analyse the experiences and motivations of volunteers who supported Ukrainian refugees who fled to Poland. Our study was conducted among 196 volunteers in Poznan, Poland who answered questions regarding their experiences with voluntary service during the current refugee crisis and the reasons they became involved in volunteer efforts. We found that although the Polish state had no prior experience in welcoming refugees on a mass scale, the Russo-Ukrainian War has resulted in the emergence of “spontaneous volunteers” who have offered their help and assistance to the flood of refugees sweeping in from its eastern neighbor. We also found that because many Polish citizens believe that helping those in need should not rest solely on the government there are two main motivations to volunteer: a general willingness to help and the willingness to volunteer on behalf of Ukrainian refugees. Finally, while this study highlights that in times of crisis, most people are primarily motivated by humanistic and democratic values, including altruism and public service, emotions also play an important role in influencing people's decision to engage in voluntary service.
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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D, Bazan D, Baum E. Volunteering in the front line of the Ukrainian refugee crisis: A brief report from Poland. Front Public Health 2022; 10:979751. [PMID: 36249193 PMCID: PMC9557937 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.979751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aims to analyse the experiences and motivations of volunteers who supported Ukrainian refugees who fled to Poland. Our study was conducted among 196 volunteers in Poznan, Poland who answered questions regarding their experiences with voluntary service during the current refugee crisis and the reasons they became involved in volunteer efforts. We found that although the Polish state had no prior experience in welcoming refugees on a mass scale, the Russo-Ukrainian War has resulted in the emergence of "spontaneous volunteers" who have offered their help and assistance to the flood of refugees sweeping in from its eastern neighbor. We also found that because many Polish citizens believe that helping those in need should not rest solely on the government there are two main motivations to volunteer: a general willingness to help and the willingness to volunteer on behalf of Ukrainian refugees. Finally, while this study highlights that in times of crisis, most people are primarily motivated by humanistic and democratic values, including altruism and public service, emotions also play an important role in influencing people's decision to engage in voluntary service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland,*Correspondence: Jan Domaradzki
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Dominika Bazan
- Department of Promotion and Careers, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
| | - Ewa Baum
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Boggon A, Poole A, Smith S, Burns A, Dilworth P. Medical students as health workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ LEADER 2022:leader-2022-000597. [DOI: 10.1136/leader-2022-000597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundWe describe efforts at one tertiary university teaching hospital to rapidly recruit, train and deploy medical students into paid clinical support worker roles during the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsRecruitment was conducted by means of a single email outlining the emergent clinical situation and specifying role descriptions, terms and conditions, and temporary staff enrolment paperwork. Applicants could begin work provided they were in good standing and received departmental orientation. Student representatives liaised with teaching faculty and participating departments. Roles were modified in response to student and departmental feedback.ResultsBetween 25 December 2020 and 9 March 2021, 189 students contributed 1335 shifts, providing 10 651 hours of clinical care in total. The median number of shifts worked per student was 6 (mean: 7; range: 1–35). Departmental leaders attested that the student workers eased the burden on hospital nursing teams.ConclusionMedical students contributed usefully and safely to the provision of healthcare within well-defined and supervised clinical support worker roles. We propose a model of working which could be adapted in the event of future pandemics or major incidents. The pedagogical value to medical students of working in clinical support roles warrants closer evaluation.
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Misra SM, Appelbaum NP, Jaramillo MA, Wang R, Hoch CT, Ismail N, Christner J. Becoming a Doctor During a Pandemic: Impact on Medical Student Social Identity Formation. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2022; 32:917-920. [PMID: 35855894 PMCID: PMC9281296 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-022-01591-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic required modifications to undergraduate medical education that likely affected medical students' social identity formation (SIF). SIF is shaped by experiences throughout the medical education continuum. This commentary explores factors potentially affecting medical student SIF during the COVID-19 pandemic focusing on students' perceptions of being part of the healthcare team, their role in medicine, and their engagement during the pandemic. Based on such considerations, we propose that educators should aim to design effective learning environments to support a full educational experience that encompasses acquiring medical knowledge and building strong social identities even during a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nital P. Appelbaum
- Division of Evaluation, Assessment and Research, School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | | | - Ruifei Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, USA
| | - Connor T. Hoch
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, New York, NY USA
| | - Nadia Ismail
- Department of Education, Innovation and Technology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Jennifer Christner
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
- School of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
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Umar TP, Samudra MG, Nashor KMN, Agustini D, Syakurah RA. Health professional student’s volunteering activities during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic literature review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:797153. [PMID: 35928294 PMCID: PMC9345056 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.797153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis has forced health and education services to use additional human resources, such as health professional students. Students in the health professions, particularly those in the medical field, can participate in a variety of voluntary activities, both directly and indirectly in health services. The aim of this review was to determine the affecting factors, types of activity, and benefits of undertaking a volunteering role by the health professional student. Methods A systematic review of health professional student volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted using seven databases: Epistemonikos, ProQuest, Scopus, EBSCOhost, JSTOR, Cochrane Library, and PubMed. This literature search included published articles from March 2020 through to December 2021 using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. Result We included 41 studies that met the selection criteria that assessed the factors and specific programs related to health profession students’ volunteering involvement during the COVID-19 pandemic era. The most frequently observed supporting factor of the eagerness to be a volunteer was the feeling of moral responsibility (such as social dedication, sense of duty, and care), potential learning opportunities, personal interest, and financial compensation. Factors that contributed to a person’s refusal to participate in a volunteer position were the fear of COVID-19 itself (such as transmission, risk of being infected, and personal identification as a risk group). Conclusion The review of available literature has shown that understanding the motivation and barriers to the willingness of health professional students to volunteer and the impact of volunteering activities on their future lives is a key for supporting them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tungki Pratama Umar
- Medical Profession Program, Faculty of Medicine, Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia
| | | | | | - Dessy Agustini
- Medicine Program, Faculty of Medicine, Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia
| | - Rizma Adlia Syakurah
- Department of Health Policy and Administration, Faculty of Public Health, Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia
- *Correspondence: Rizma Adlia Syakurah,
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AlSaif HI, Alessa MM, Alajlan AH, Alrshid AI, Aljarbou AF, Alqahtani AA, Aljumah MI, Alrshid MI, Aleisa AI, Aloufi AM, Alsaad SM. Which Volunteering Settings Do Medical Students Prefer During a Novel Respiratory Virus Pandemic? A Cross-Sectional Study of Multiple Colleges in Central Saudi Arabia During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2022; 15:983-996. [PMID: 35592443 PMCID: PMC9112457 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s352210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Novel respiratory virus outbreaks are a recurring public health concern. Volunteering medical students can be a valuable asset during such times. This study investigated the willingness of medical students to volunteer during the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the barriers to doing so, considering the possibility of exposure to COVID-19 and mode of contact. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire adapted from the literature. The questionnaire comprised four parts: demographic variables, COVID-19-related variables, willingness scale, and barrier scale. The target population was medical students at four different colleges in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Results A total of 802 students participated in the study. A small proportion of students (10.6%) were willing to participate in volunteering activities that could involve contact with patients with COVID-19 as compared to other settings (39.4-43.4%). More than one-quarter of students (26.8%) had risk factors for severe COVID-19. The main barrier to volunteering was the concern of transmitting the infection to family members (76.8%). Registration to receive the COVID-19 vaccine was positively associated with more willingness to volunteer (β=0.17, p <0.001), whereas residing in a household with an elderly person was negatively associated (β=-0.13, p <0.001). Female sex was positively associated with higher barrier score (β=0.12, p <0.001). Conclusion Medical students were more willing to volunteer in activities that did not involve direct contact with patients with COVID-19. A considerable proportion of participants had risk factors for severe illness. Sharing a household with an elderly person or child was associated with lower willingness to volunteer. Organizers of volunteering activities should offer various volunteering options considering the risk of infection; and be mindful of barriers to volunteering, especially risk factors for severe illness and eldercare and childcare responsibilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haytham I AlSaif
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,Correspondence: Haytham I AlSaif, Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2925, Ext. 34, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966 114670836, Email
| | | | - Ahmed H Alajlan
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | | | - Mansour I Alrshid
- College of Medicine, Imam Muhammed Ibn Saud Islamic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aljoharah I Aleisa
- College of Medicine, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Saad M Alsaad
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Kim EA, Kim HR, Kim B. Factors influencing medical and nursing students' willingness to care for COVID-19 patients in South Korea: a cross-sectional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:161. [PMID: 35260153 PMCID: PMC8902902 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03229-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has threatened the stability and adequacy of the global healthcare system. In this situation, authorities have considered engaging medical and nursing students to address the shortage of frontline healthcare workers. This study investigated the effect of COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors on medical and nursing students' willingness to care for COVID-19 patients. METHODS Medical and nursing students from universities in two regions of South Korea participated in this cross-sectional study. A total of 330 questionnaires were distributed; of them, 99.3% were collected, and 315 questionnaires were analyzed. Data were collected on participants' general characteristics, COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behaviors, and willingness to care for COVID-19 patients. RESULTS In total, 66.3% of the participants were willing to care for patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students in higher grades and those with more clinical practice experience showed higher levels of willingness to care. Specifically, willingness to care was correlated with the senior year (OR = 3.58, 95% CI = 1.24 - 10.37, p = .019), a high level of COVID-19-related knowledge (OR = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.00 - 1.05, p = .041), an optimistic attitude that COVID-19 can be overcome (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.24 - 2.14, p < .001), and increased engagement in infection prevention behaviors (OR = 1.41, 95% CI = 1.16 - 1.71, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS The findings indicated that a high level of knowledge regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, having an optimistic attitude, and engaging in preventive behaviors affected students' willingness to care for COVID-19 patients. Integrating disaster preparedness courses in the early years of their curriculum could increase future healthcare providers' willingness to care for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eun A Kim
- Department of Nursing, Honam University, 417 Eodeung-daero, Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju, 62399, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Ran Kim
- Department of Nursing, College of Medicine, Chosun University, 309 Pilmun-daero, Dong-gu, Gwangju, 61452, Republic of Korea.
| | - Boyoung Kim
- College of Nursing, Chonnam National University, 160 Baekseo-ro, Dong-gu, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
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‘Who Else If Not We’. Medical Students’ Perception and Experiences with Volunteering during the COVID-19 Crisis in Poznan, Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042314. [PMID: 35206496 PMCID: PMC8871886 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the closure of all Polish medical universities. Simultaneously, due to staff shortages and the Polish health-care system being seriously challenged, many students were eager to contribute to the fight against the outbreak. This study explores medial student volunteers’ (MSV) perspectives and their lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Material and Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-one students. Results: A total of seven major themes emerged from the interviews: 1. students’ reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2. students’ experiences of the outbreak, 3. motivations for volunteering, 4. students’ perceptions of the COVID-19 volunteering, 5. organization of students’ volunteering, 6. benefits and costs of volunteering during COVID-19, and 7. social perception of MSVs. Although students volunteering was an example of civic responsibility and created new learning opportunities, many students felt unprepared for the pandemic, lacked social skills and access to psychological support, and were the target of stigmatization and discrimination. Discussion: Because during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic medical universities were closed and classes were held online, students’ volunteering became an important part of service learning and created an opportunity for education. Consequently, while it benefited students, patients and the healthcare system, students’ involvement reinforced such important values of medical ethos as: altruism, public service, and (professional) solidarity. However, some systemic approach should be undertaken that would prepare students better for future crises.
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Domaradzki J. ‘Who Else If Not We’. Medical Students’ Perception and Experiences with Volunteering during the COVID-19 Crisis in Poznan, Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:2314. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the closure of all Polish medical universities. Simultaneously, due to staff shortages and the Polish health-care system being seriously challenged, many students were eager to contribute to the fight against the outbreak. This study explores medial student volunteers’ (MSV) perspectives and their lived experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland. Material and Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with twenty-one students. Results: A total of seven major themes emerged from the interviews: 1. students’ reactions to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2. students’ experiences of the outbreak, 3. motivations for volunteering, 4. students’ perceptions of the COVID-19 volunteering, 5. organization of students’ volunteering, 6. benefits and costs of volunteering during COVID-19, and 7. social perception of MSVs. Although students volunteering was an example of civic responsibility and created new learning opportunities, many students felt unprepared for the pandemic, lacked social skills and access to psychological support, and were the target of stigmatization and discrimination. Discussion: Because during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic medical universities were closed and classes were held online, students’ volunteering became an important part of service learning and created an opportunity for education. Consequently, while it benefited students, patients and the healthcare system, students’ involvement reinforced such important values of medical ethos as: altruism, public service, and (professional) solidarity. However, some systemic approach should be undertaken that would prepare students better for future crises.
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Saeed N, Javed N. Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic: Perspectives of medical students. Pak J Med Sci 2021; 37:1402-1407. [PMID: 34475920 PMCID: PMC8377910 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.37.5.4177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The objective of the study was to assess the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health and lifestyle of our medical students. Methods: This observational study was conducted on medical students of Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad from June to August 2020. The GAD-7 and PHQ-9 questionnaires were used for anxiety and depression assessment. Different aspects of changes in lifestyle were evaluated and students were inquired about their views regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The chi-square test was applied to assess the associations between levels of anxiety and depression with student’s responses to the concerns and lifestyle changes. The binomial logistic analysis was used to highlight important predictors of anxiety and depression. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare the time spent on various activities before and during the pandemic. Results: There were 234 participants in the study. The depression and anxiety were detected in 151 (64.5%) and 146 (66.7%) students. The college closure led to a significant increase in sleeping time, sedentary time, and time on gadgets (Z=-4.67, Z=-7.23, Z= -6.72, respectively) on the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The binomial regression analysis identified study years be the significant predictors for the development of depression and anxiety (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our study emphasizes prioritizing both the physical and mental health of medical students is vital to avoid complications related to the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Saeed
- Nadia Saeed, FCPS (Medicine) Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Shifa College of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Nismat Javed
- Nismat Javed, Final year Medical Student, Shifa College of Medicine, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Enoch TR, Williams RC. Why face-to-face medical education will prevail despite the world's swift acclimatisation to virtual learning. Postgrad Med J 2021; 98:e146-e147. [PMID: 34193539 DOI: 10.1136/postgradmedj-2021-140426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Attitude and Behaviors towards SARS-CoV-2 Vaccination among Healthcare Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study from Poland. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9030218. [PMID: 33806641 PMCID: PMC8000513 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Healthcare workers are particularly exposed to biological risk during their daily occupational activities. Nowadays, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become one of the most widespread infectious agents. In the current study, we performed a survey on the attitude and behavior of Polish healthcare workers (HCW), which comprise physicians (MD) and administrative healthcare assistants (HA) towards the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. Our study involved 2300 subjects (42.17% female; 10.96% MD; 5.87% HA). The evaluation was conducted using a Google Forms survey based on original questions and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale-21 Items questionnaire. HCW significantly more often demonstrated their willingness to get vaccinated against the SARS-CoV-2 as compared to the control group (82.95% vs. 54.31%, respectively). The main concern, as regards all groups, was the development of long-term side effects after getting COVID-19 vaccine. The study revealed that depression significantly affects the willingness to get vaccinated. The readiness was significantly strengthened by positive medical history of recommended vaccinations, fear of catching COVID-19, as well as fear of passing on the disease to the relatives. Overall, the percentage of HCW, who want to be vaccinated against COVID-19 remains unsatisfactory. Further works exploring this subject are needed to take a step closer to achieving the herd immunity in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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