Strengthening Primary Health Care Through MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses): A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: After the increased number of COVID-19-positive patients, a plateau phase and a decrease in the numbers were expected, followed by a second phase which could lead to an increased health system workload. The importance of training well-educated and qualified healthcare professionals (HPs) has been reconsidered. The rapid spread of the epidemic revealed the limitations of traditional method education. Massive online courses (MOOCs) were offered as a solution to keep the information up-to-date and accessible. The aim of our study was to evaluate the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals on strengthening the health system during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional multi-centered study, an online survey was applied to HPs between February-May 2021. There were 28 participating countries. Due to international participation, the survey was conducted in English. 
 Results: There were 88 female and 87 male participants. Most of the participants were from Europe and Euroasia. Most of them reported their income as $501-$1500 US Dollars). The duration of job experience was between 5-15 years. 111 of them have completed a postdoctoral degree. 
 Conclusion: According to the survey, all the groups reported as the effect of strengthening primary care by MOOC was positive.