Impact of COVID 19 Pandemic on Pediatric Residency Training Program in Sudan: Challenges and the Way Forward

Author(s): Inaam N Mohamed, Safa Nasr, Ilham M Omer

Background: The clinical education and hands-on training are affected by the disruption of formal health care delivery and the emergency need to adapt the new rapidly evolving COVID 19 pandemic Here we aim to determine the impact of COVID-19 pediatric on residency program training in Sudan.

Methods: This study was carried out in the period from December 2020 – January 2021. A designed questionnaire was distributed using Google form, 186 trainees responded.

Results: The study included 186 trainees of whom 152 (83.5%) females and 30(16.5%) males. Of whom 15 (8.2%) acquired infection with COVID 19. Comparing the work load and teaching opportunities in the year 2019 to 2020 it was very clear that there is decrease in working load and training opportunities during COVID 19 pandemic. Almost all trainees fully agreed that their training was severely affected during COVID 19 pandemic locked down. Trainees raised the issue of being stressed by transmitting the infection to their families and the working environments.

Conclusion: The undue effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on residency Pediatric training is well documented. Different innovative alternative teaching methods must be implemented to maintain quality of education, and research.