CovidNor - Experiences of patients and primary health care professionals during the COVID-19 epidemic in Norway

Most patients with COVID19 have a milder disease course and are treated outside hospital. In the CovidNor project, we have examined the symptoms, complaints and concerns of patients treated in the primary healthcare service, and we have explored how GPs and municipal doctors handle the pandemic. The project has consisted of three work packages: 1. An online survey, where we have collected information about symptoms, follow-up and concerns of people in isolation or quarantine. The study took place from March/April 2020 until July 2021. Results are expected soon in scientific journals, and some will be presented in relevant forums. We will later link this information to data from various health registers to identify possible factors that are associated with the development of a more serious disease course as well as possible complications and long-term effects of COVID19. 2. Through the PraksisNett research network, GPs registered information on how patients with respiratory infections were in contact with the doctor, examined, treated and followed up during the pandemic. Preliminary results from this have been presented orally in research forums. A scientific article is currently being prepared. 3. We have conducted in-depth interviews with GPs, emergency department chief doctors and municipal chief doctors in Norway and infection control personnel in Sweden about handling the pandemic. We have focused on the collaboration between GPs and the municipality, management, communication and division of tasks, and adaptation to a situation characterized by rapid changes. A scientific article is expected to be published in 2022, and remaining material is being analyzed for future publications.