Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic came as a shock to citizens globally and those dependent on medications for chronic conditions were hit the hardest during the long lockdowns. This study aims to assess how the medications for chronic conditions in the state of Goa were impacted and the change in practices and attitude towards purchase and compliance.
Methods: It was a cross sectional study conducted on 264 participants from various parts of Goa, a state on the western coast of India. Data was collected using an online questionnaire using Google forms which involved closed and open ended questions assessing attitude, compliance and practice change towards acquiring and the usage of medications for chronic conditions.
Results: Out of 264 participants, 57.1% (151) were male and 42.9% (113) were female. 13% (34) participants felt that the lockdown made acquiring medicines tougher. 14.3% (38) people stated their method of purchase changed. 8.4% (22) felt that purchasing medications became easier while 17.5% (46) felt that it became harder. 6.5% (17) had to change brand of medication for a less expensive alternative/ brand. 2.2% (5) observed side effects due to change of medication. 12.3% (32) patients became non-compliant with their medication.
Conclusion: Several changes in practice and compliance were found and reiterates the need for a more intensified interdepartmental discussion to keep the steady flow of chronic disease medications in states hit by disasters intact and reiterates the need for educating the general populace on the timely consumption and compliance of essential chronic disease medications.
Recommended Citation
SF, Sayed; A, Dias; and M, Viegas
(2022)
"ASSESSMENT OF THE IMPACT OF THE LOCKDOWN ON THE USE OF MEDICATIONS FOR CHRONIC DISEASES IN THE STATE OF GOA,"
Manipal Journal of Medical Sciences: Vol. 7:
Iss.
2, Article 6.
Available at:
https://impressions.manipal.edu/mjms/vol7/iss2/6
