Physicians' perceptions on the impact of COVID-19 in coronary artery disease diagnostic imaging and treatment: A Latin America survey. For the Society of Cardiovascular Imaging of the Inter-American Society of Cardiology.

Background: Services during the pandemic were severely restricted, public reluctance to seek medical assistance rose, with a reduction of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities use in coronary artery disease (CAD). However, information about perceived barriers of care among cardiologists is limited. We aim to explore these barriers diagnostic and treatment modalities of CAD in Latin America during the pandemic.

Methods: An anonymous Google form 12 closed-questions survey was conducted between November 2020 to January 2021. Latin American cardiologists members of the Imaging Society (SISIAC) of the Inter-American Society of Cardiology (SIAC) were reached by email and social media.

Results: Differences were found in relation to patients' perceived reluctance to undergo testing, particularly in South America and inpatient care (p < 0.05). Respondents' perceived barriers in the use of CV tests were higher in South America (p < 0.05) and related to public practice (p < 0.01). Barriers to the treatment of myocardial infarction were present in all regions (p < 0.05), and follow-up was influenced by COVID-19 in both public and private practices (p = 0.01).

Conclusions:  Regardless of treatment and diagnostic approach (invasive or non-invasive) followed, according to physicians' perception, the pandemic significantly impacted the clinical management of CAD in the Latin American population, similar to the global situation.