Healthcare utilization in primary care during the corona pandemic: a nation-wide population-based study from a patient and healthcare provider perspective

Project description Question During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have started to avoid healthcare. In addition, the care capacity has changed due to the measures. Decreases in the use of (regular) primary care can lead to health damage due to, for example, late-diagnosed or untreated heart and vascular diseases or oncological conditions. Research This research provides insight into the use of primary care during the COVID-19 outbreak. It reveals which care demands are being postponed by patients and / or care providers, it identifies groups at risk and finds out the actual reasons for care avoidance. Expected outcome Results of this study contribute to the development of strategies to mitigate declines in health care use in potential flare-ups of COVID-19. Moreover, the research provides tools for policymakers so that they can weigh up new preventive measures against possible side effects.