Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the activity of private medical
practices in Morocco
Abstract
Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic on the activity of private medical practices in
Morocco. Methods: An online survey was carried out in June 2020. The
study population consisted of physicians (General practitioners and
specialists) who run private practices in different regions of Morocco.
The questionnaire comprised 3 sections: demographic and professional
data, the impact noticed by the doctors and the strategies adopted to
tackle this impact. Results: We analyzed 225 responses. Specialists
represented 71.6% of the respondents. The majority (94.2%) of the
private practices were located in urban areas. Almost all respondents
have noticed a change in the demand for medical services, mainly a
decrease (96,44%). There was an increase in urgent consultations
(30.7%) and consultations for acute motives (39.1%). Respondents also
reported less (69,3%) or no (23,1%) regular follow-up visits for
patients with chronic diseases. Decreased incomes concerned 97,33% of
the practices. Doctors reacted by working less hours (87,55%), delaying
some procedures (78,22%), and applying recommended safety measures
(100%). Telemedicine was used in an informal way to facilitate the
communication with patients. Discussion and conclusion: During this
pandemic, private practices were challenged to contribute to the
continuity of healthcare services while ensuring the safety of the staff
and the patients. Several strategies were adopted to cope with the new
situation and to survive its many challenges.