Primary Care Practices in Western North Carolina: Adaptation to the COVID-19 Pandemic and Ongoing Challenges.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for primary care practices while also highlighting their importance in the pandemic response. To understand primary care practice needs, a survey was conducted of practices in Western North Carolina.

Methods

Phase 2 of a primary care needs assessment was administered to 63 practices in Western North Carolina over the course of six weeks, from July 23 to August 31, 2021.

Results

Most practices were operating with normal hours, though some still operated with reduced hours. Many practices reported insufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) supplies. While most practices provided at least some care via telehealth, practices cited different barriers to providing telehealth, with patient technology chal

SUBMITTER: Friedman HR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10324795 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature