Original Article

Year : 2019 | Volume : 4 | Issue : 1 | Page : 6 - 11

Social Impact on Ophthalmic Services During First Wave of Corona Pandemic in Sub-Himalayan Tertiary Institute

Ram Lal Sharma, Kalpana Sharma

Department of Ophthalmology, IGMC, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India

Address for correspondence:

Dr. Kalpana Sharma,

Department of Ophthalmology, IGMC Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India.

E‐mail: doctorkalpana. 84@gmail.com

Abstract

Introduction:

The novel coronavirus (CoV) known as severe acute respiratory syndrome-CoV-2 has engulfed the entire world. The nations

worldwide are engaged in carrying out several research, treatment, and vaccine trials to relieve the world from the shackles of this global

pandemic. This pandemic has not only strained health-care facilities but also has psychosocial repercussions.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to find out the effects of lockdown on ophthalmological services in coronavirus disease (COVID) era and its psychosocial impact.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of data in the department of ophthalmology of tertiary care institute from March 2020 to August 2020 was done. This period was compared with corresponding months of previous year 2019. The services affected and the pattern of social behavior during different phases of complete and partial lockdown periods were studied.

Results:

Strict administrative execution of lockdown and curfews led to the reduction in the number of patients visiting the hospital and accounted for a drastic dip in the number of patients visiting outpatient department and operating procedures. The initial mental defense phases of apprehension, denial, and projection in lockdown period were eventually followed by displacement and suppression in unlockdown period.

Conclusion:

The number of COVID-positive patients in India has risen exponentially. As per the WHO, this global pandemic is likely to stay longer, the standard protocol for patients and health-care workers needs to be adhered strictly and revised from time to time, as there is an expected surge of patients with visual threatening situations for number of patients who have been deprived of treatment in restriction phases of lockdown. The psychosocial behavior as a result of mental defense mechanisms should also be maneuvered along the pandemic control.

Keywords: Coronavirus, ophthalmic services, psychosocial impact

Financial support and sponsorship

Nil.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

How to cite this article: Sharma RL, Sharma K. Social impact on ophthalmic services during first wave of corona pandemic in sub-himalayan tertiary institute. Int J Soc Rehab 2019;4:6-11.