The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on rheumatology practice and rheumatologists: a cross-sectional multinational study

Abstract ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rheumatology practice and on the rheumatologists themselves, and to develop suggestions to improve the practice.MethodsA cross-sectional web survey was designed by members of the Arab League of Associations for Rheumatology (ArLAR), validated by its scientific committee and disseminated through e-mail and social media. It included close-ended questions about the impact of the pandemic on the activities (in percentage, where 100% corresponds to complete suspension), and open-ended questions about unmet needs. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the predictors of impact. Suggestions were developed to improve practice.ResultsA total of 858 rheumatologists were included in the analysis (27.3% of registered), 37% were 35-44 years-old, 60% were females and 48% worked in the private sector. The impact of COVID-19 was a decrease of 69% in hospitalizations, 65% in outpatient clinic, 56% in infusion centers and 43% in income. It was associated with the region (highest in the Gulf), the use of telemedicine, the impact on income and the practice sector (lowest in private). Telemedicine was mostly based on traditional telephone contacts and e-mails and reimbursed in 12%. Fifteen rheumatologists (1.8%) were infected and 156 cases of COVID-19 among patients were reported, of whom 22% died. The top-cited unmet needs were: access to drugs and a telemedicine platform.Conclusion The negative COVID-19 pandemic on rheumatology practice may compromise rheumatic diseases control. Better access to drugs and providing telemedicine platforms are recommended to improve the practice.