The Perioperative Patient Experience During COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Patient Experience
• Pandemic Response

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted access to elective surgical procedures.
• Understanding patient perspectives during these disruptions is crucial for healthcare adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the patient experience with non-emergency surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify factors influencing patient satisfaction and anxiety levels.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online survey was distributed to patients who had non-emergency surgery between March and October 2020.
• The survey captured data on patient demographics, awareness of delays, impact on quality of life, and overall satisfaction.

Main Results:

• 184 patients completed the survey; most were White (84%) and female (74.6%).
• While most patients were unaware of or agreed with delays, 44% reported a negative impact on quality of life.
• African American patients reported more neutral experiences and considered postponing surgery; younger patients (<60) reported higher anxiety related to pandemic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Patients generally demonstrate resilience and acceptance of pandemic-related healthcare changes.
• Targeted interventions may be needed to address heightened anxiety in specific patient populations, such as younger individuals and African Americans.
• Findings inform strategies for adapting healthcare delivery during ongoing and future disruptions.