Physicians’ perceptions of their knowledge and the preparedness of health facilities in Angola to diagnose and manage COVID-19

BACKGROUND: Healthcare professionals represent a vulnerable group in terms of responding to COVID-19. Knowledge can influence healthcare professionals through adoption of the correct attitudes and practices. The aim of this study was to evaluate, by a questionnaire, the perceptions of physicians about their level of knowledge as well as conditions in their workplaces for dealing with COVID-19. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of Angolan physicians took place from 11 May to 23 June 2020. A questionnaire was electronically shared across social media and via email. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 637 valid questionnaires; 53% of respondents were female, 41% were aged 31–40 y and 79% were from Luanda province. About 51% of physicians perceived that they had adequate knowledge about COVID-19 and 64% used personal protective equipment. These figures were higher among specialists from the province of Luanda. About 81% stated that their health units lacked the technical capacity to diagnose COVID-19. Only 35% of health units have chest tomography equipment; 44% are prepared for the care and/or isolation of patients. Only 33% of units are running intensive care units. The main concerns of physicians were training opportunities and limited access to personal protective equipment. CONCLUSION: The results show that it is necessary to strengthen physicians’ knowledge about COVID-19, as well as to improve the conditions of the health units, so as to promote safe practices.