Assessing COVID-19 Preparedness and Perception among Thai Paramedics in Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study

OBJECTIVE: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak has had widespread impacts on global public health systems, including Thailand’s. Preparedness for public health emergencies is therefore critical. This study aimed to assess Thai paramedics’ operational preparedness and perception in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 225 paramedics in Thailand. Data were collected via an online questionnaire between August and December 2021, covering general information, perceptions of infectious diseases, and COVID-19 response preparedness. The questionnaire on preparedness was a binary response format, with yes scored as 1 and no scored as 0. In contrast, the questionnaire on COVID-19 perception was measured using a 5-point rating scale, with the lowest score being 1 and the highest score being 5. The results were then categorized into three levels: high, moderate, and low. Analyses included frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. Logistic regression was used to assess relationships between basic characteristics, perceptions, and preparedness.RESULTS: Operational preparedness was moderate, with structural preparedness at 53.3% and operational preparedness at 54.2%. Only 38.7% of the participants were fully prepared across all aspects. Meanwhile, perceived was found to be at a high level for both risk perception and perceived severity (mean scores: 4.50 ± 0.44 and 4.60 ± 0.44 respectively). Logistic regression identified key predictors of preparedness: prior training in COVID-19 patient management (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01-3.17) and hands-on experience with COVID-19 patients (adjusted OR = 3.33, 95%CI = 1.56-7.12).CONCLUSION: Integrating knowledge with practical experience enhances emergency preparedness. To improve readiness, capacity development through targeted training, simulation exercises, and real-world practice opportunities is essential for paramedics.