Quick Covid-19 Primary Care Survey, Series 33

Abstract

Notable loss of primary care workforce since the start of the pandemic is evidenced in this latest survey of front-line workers. A large portion of respondents report inability to fill both clinician and staffing positions, in addition to direct knowledge of closed practices and an influx of new patients seeking care after their practice has closed. Staffing ratios have shifted causing 3 in 10 clinicians to report they have fewer people involved in direct patient care in their practice. The majority have found telehealth useful for increasing access to care and meeting the needs of patients, however low reimbursements for this mode of care delivery remain troublesome. Six in ten report mental stress/exhaustion is at an all-time high in their practice. Noted by 67% of respondents: we (primary care workforce) are clinically fragile – when is someone going to notice!