Impact of COVID-19 on Clinical and Academic Urological Practice: A Survey from European Association of Urology Section of Uro-technology

Background The unexpected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has spread worldwide rapidly, developing into a global health crisis. At the same time, it has seriously impacted the daily activities in all the fields of urology. Objective To better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical, academic, and scientific activities as well as on the quality of life of urologists from the main centers in Europe. Design, setting, and participants We conducted a survey using a 37-item questionnaire. The survey included three main sections: clinical practice, academic/scientific activities, and personal/social quality of life. Outcome measurements and statistical analysis A descriptive analysis was performed using the collected data. Results and limitations A total of 107 representatives affiliated to different centers from 22 countries completed the survey. Clinical activities were affected in 54.2% of the centers, and 85.0% of the elective surgeries were cancelled. Of the urological departments, 64.5% were still performing minimally invasive surgery for malignant disease. In 33.6% of the hospitals, dedicated and specially equipped operating theaters for COVID-19–positive patients were not available. According to 72.9% of participants, COVID-19 had a substantial negative impact on academic activities, and 82.3% of the respondents agreed that their quality of life has been affected negatively by the pandemic. Finally, 92.5% of the participants believe that the pandemic will have a moderate to severe impact on the health system of their countries. Conclusions Data collected in this survey provide insight into changes brought about in clinical and academic settings amid COVID-19. Along with shortages such as bed occupancy and personal protective equipment, it highlights negative impacts on academic and scientific activities, including the personal and social life of urologists. Patient summary It is essential to understand the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on clinical, academic, and scientific urological activities, as well as on related personal and social issues. As situations similar to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic may recur, we must be prepared to react quickly and effectively. It is important that urology departments look after the well-being of their patients, while protecting their staff and continuing with academic/research activities.