Differences in psychosocial distress among rural and metropolitan health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The Australian COVID-19 Frontline Healthcare Workers study examined the prevalence and severity of mental health symptoms during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. This substudy examined the differences in psychological well-being between rural and metropolitan health care workers (HCWs).

Design

A nationwide survey conducted between August and October 2020.

Setting and participants

Australian HCWs were recruited through multiple strategies.

Main outcome measures

Demographics, mental health outcomes (anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder [PTSD] and burnout).

Results

Complete responses were included from 7846 participants, with 1473 (18.8%) in regional or remote ('rural') areas and 81.2% in metropolitan areas. Rural participa

SUBMITTER: Tham R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9347496 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature