Effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of the clinical imaging workforce at Hamad Medical Corporation

Abstract Background: Clinical Radiology Service has borne a substantial chunk of the burden caused by the COVID-19 outbreak to healthcare systems. Our aim is to assess the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic among healthcare professionals in the clinical imaging department. Methods Retrospective cross-sectional analysis of questionnaire responses from medical personnel who worked in the respective facilities of clinical imaging department during the pandemic period from January 01 2021 to June 30 2021 was performed. The survey contained standardized questionnaire i.e. – Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 (GAD-7) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale(DASS-21). Results: 108 participants responded to the email survey. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the DASS-21 Scale for depression, anxiety and stress scores among healthcare workers in the clinical imaging department were 30.6%, 36.98% and 10.3%, respectively. According to the GAD-7 Scale, 41.6% of people showed signs of anxiety. 79.6% of the health care professionals involved in the study has direct exposure to COVID-19 in the workplace. In addition, most healthcare professionals choose individual counseling (37%) over group psychotherapy (15.7%)and media-based mental health resources (21.3%), and 79% of participants were aware of the hospital staff's access to mental health services resources. Conclusion: The psychological burden experienced by healthcare professionals during the time of pandemic was significant. Collectively these findings can inform change in guidance and policies to improve mental health and prevent burnout among the healthcare professionals.