Examining the health and functioning status of medical laboratory professionals in Ontario, Canada: an exploratory study during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objectives This study aims to explore the overall and specific aspects of the functioning of medical laboratory professionals (MLPs) in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design A cross-sectional analysis where a questionnaire was used to assess the mental status of MLPs. Setting An online questionnaire administered in Ontario, Canada. Participants 632 MLPs (medical laboratory technologists technicians and assistants) were included. Main outcome measures We employed the WHO Disability Assessment Schedule V.2.0 (WHODAS V.2.0) Questionnaire to assess functioning/disability and Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire, third edition for psychosocial workplace factors. Multiple regression analysis examined the relationship between overall and specific domain functioning scores and psychosocial workplace factors. Results Of the total 632 participants, the majority were female gender and Caucasian. It was found that health (β=2.25, p<0.001, CI: 1.77 to 2.73), management of environmental conditions (β=0.65, p<0.001, CI: 0.33 to 0.98), fear of unemployment (β=−0.72, p<0.001, CI: −1.09 to −0.35) and frequency of stress (β=−1.86, p<0.001, CI: −2.33 to −1.40), in addition to bullying exposure (β=0.56, p<0.01, CI: 0.15 to 0.98) and threats of violence exposure (β=0.90, p<0.01, CI: 0.25 to 1.54), significantly decreased functioning overall and within the specific WHODAS V.2.0 functioning domains. Conclusion This study provides preliminary evidence of the overall and specific aspects of functioning among the MLPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides, these findings can support and guide the improvement of workplace practices and policies among MLPs in the future.