Psychological and professional impact of COVID-19 lockdown on French dermatologists: Data from a large survey

Misery, L; Fluhr, J W; Beylot-Barry, M; Jouan, N; Hamann, P; Consoli, S G; Schollhammer, M; Charleux, D; Bewley, A; Rathod, D

Aim: To evaluate the extent to which COVID-19-related lockdown affected dermatologists. Methods: An anonymous online survey was proposed to all French dermatologists and dermatology residents to assess the impact of COVID-19 lockdown on their professional activity, their level of stress and their psychological state, as well as their coping strategies. Results: Exactly 800 dermatologists completed the survey. The respondents noted changes in behavior in their professional and personal environment. The number of cancelled or rescheduled appointments was very high, with a huge financial impact for private practitioners. Stigmatization was also reported. Anxiety and a feeling of increased stress were very frequent. Increased substance use was also reported. Conclusion: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown was significant for French dermatologists, with risks to their own health, profound changes in their practice, and financial and psychological impact, but also the development of new consultation and evaluation strategies to improve their work-life balance.