COVID‐19 Antiviral Treatment: Examining Knowledge, Access, Trust in Sources of Information and Willingness to Use Among Essential Workers: A Cross‐Sectional Survey of Cohort Participants

Background and Aims: Despite evidence of effectiveness, oral antivirals for COVID-19 are underused, with significant variation across populations. This study examines COVID-19 treatment awareness, knowledge, access, trusted sources, and willingness to use among diverse essential workers in Tennessee during May 18, 2023-June 1, 2024. Methods: tests assessed differences across demographic and health characteristics. Multivariable log-binomial regression modeling was used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios for key outcomes by demographic and health characteristic with 95% confidence intervals. Results: Of 1289 respondents with risk factors for severe COVID-19, over 50% were aware of COVID-19 antivirals; 69% were willing to take antivirals if recommended by their healthcare provider. Adjusted models showed older respondents had higher awareness, knowledge, access and trust in doctors. Black non-Hispanic respondents, those with lower education, and those with fewer vaccinations were less likely to be aware of antivirals, answer knowledge questions correctly, or report willingness to use antivirals if recommended. Hispanic respondents reported less awareness, knowledge, and lower trust in doctors as a good source of information about COVID-19 antivirals. Conclusion: Although willingness to use COVID-19 antivirals was relatively high among diverse essential workers with risk factors for severe COVID-19, there was variation based on demographic and health factors. This study identifies key gaps, providing a foundation for developing new approaches to improve access to antiviral treatments.