MOH Launches Telephone Survey on The Impact of Covid-19 on Non-Communicable Diseases

#TurksandCaicos, January 28, 2022 – The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant effect on households worldwide. The Ministry of Health and Human Services is aware that many persons are or may have /have experienced increased depression and anxiety, and other effects on their mental and physical well-being as a result of the pandemic. This has been attributed to various factors including feelings of isolation, loss of loved ones, media reports, virtual schooling, childcare, fear of going into public spaces and contracting the virus. Some persons have resorted to/returned to substance use, due to the effects on their mental health.

The pandemic has affected access to health care which can result in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remaining undiagnosed and those with NCDs, not obtaining their medication or performing the necessary tests to keep track of their health status and readings (such as blood glucose, blood sugar, cholesterol) and complying with recommended treatment.

In this regard, the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has commissioned a telephone survey to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the health and well-being of Turks and Caicos residents.

Residents will be randomly selected and called to participate in the telephone survey. Phone numbers would be anonymously provided by FLOW and Digicel. Participation is voluntary and names/identification will not be requested. Callers will remain anonymous. The information provided will be confidential, and the results of the survey will be used to guide health policies in the Turks and Caicos.

The Ministry of Health thanks all those who have participated in the survey and kindly asks for your participation if you are randomly selected, as the information gathered is critical to guide policies and plans in order to positively impact the health and wellbeing of the TCIs residents.

For more information, please contact 3384941 or visit our Facebook page on TCI Health promotion and Advocacy.