The Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on the General and Mental Health of Medical Residency in Kurdistan Region, Iraq; A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: The impact of COVID-19 on mental health outcomes of medical residency is an important concern. Currently, evidence regarding this issue is not sufficient. Objectives: The current study aimed to demonstrate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on residency training programs as well as its psychological consequences for both individuals and their families in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Methods: This online cross-sectional study was performed at the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, from 12 - 25 August 2020. In total, 275 residents participated. Data were collected online, and the items were sent through specific Facebook and Viber groups of residents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (i.e., frequency and percentage). Besides, the Chi-square and Fisher's exact test were used to compare the participants based on their sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Of 275 participants, 50.9% were female and mostly older than 30 years (52.4%). Surgical (36.4%) was the most commonly cited specialty, followed by medical (22.2%). Around 40% of residents were forced to changes the hospital due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, 50% of them had close contact with COVID-19 patients, and only 12.7% had enough training for the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Moreover, 90% of the residents felt anxious and concerned about the situation. Nearly 10% of residents were infected with COVID-19, and 24% of them had an infected family member. Approximately 92% reported a reduction in training activities due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Of those with surgical specialties, 83% reported a significant reduction in the number of surgeries since the onset of the pandemic (P < 0.024). Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused high levels of psychological distress of medical residency. The combination of psychological disorders with high infection rates among students of residency in our region may cause a critical impact on the residency training program. Besides, the quality of programs may also be influenced. An urgent plan is required to reduce the psychological stress and protecting doctors against the infection.