How are family doctors serving the Hong Kong community during the COVID-19 outbreak? A survey of HKCFP members

Abstract

Introduction: Family doctors who serve as the first point of contact for patients will inevitably be responsible for identifying probably cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among the many patients presenting with respiratory symptoms each day. Despite experience in dealing with the severe-acute-respiratory-syndrome (SARS) in 2003 and the H1N1 pandemic in 2009, their preparedness in handling another outbreak has not been explored. This study evaluated the preparedness of family doctors from both public and private sectors during the early phase of COVID-19 outbreak in Hong Kong. Methods: All members of the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians were invited to participate in a cross-sectional online survey using a 20-item questionnaire to collect information on practice preparedness for the COVID-19 outbreak through an email followed by a reminder SMS message between 31 January 2020 and 3 February 2020. Results: Of 1589 family doctors invited, 491 (31%) participated in the survey, including 242 (49%) from private sector. In all, 98% surveyed doctors continued to provide clinical services during the survey period, but reduced clinic service demands were observed in 45% private practices and 24% public clinics. Almost all wore masks during consultation and washed hands between or before patient contact. Significantly more private than public doctors (80% vs 26%, P<0.001) experienced difficulties in stocking personal protective equipment (PPE); more public doctors used guidelines to manage suspected patients. The main concern of the respondents was PPE shortage. Respondents appealed for effective public health interventions including border control, quarantine measures,designated clinic setup, and public education. Conclusions: Family doctors from public and private sectors demonstrated preparedness to serve the community from the early phase of the COVID-19 outbreak with heightened infection control measures and use of guidelines. However, there is a need for support from local health authorities to secure PPE supply and institute public health interventions.