Table 4 Cross-board impact of COVID-19 pandemic on AATD management

Positive cross-board effects

Organization of online seminars to reinforce patient’s information and reduce their uncertainty

Use of different media and social networks to give best public health advice and recommendations to patients who need it

Better communication between different care levels

Increased involvement and participation of patients’ associations in the dissemination of information, providing support to patients and strengthening psychosocial monitoring

Negative cross-board effects

Mistrust on going to the health center for fear of infection

Problems in differentiating between patients with respiratory conditions and suspected COVID patients, thus being admitted incorrectly to the special COVID circuit, and consequently making it difficult to access appropriate consultations

Professionals’ feeling of loneliness during the pandemic, highlighting the need to establish coordinated criteria among them for decision-making, in line with legal and ethical principles

Emotional tension and stress among professionals, the lack of official documents and criteria for managing the pandemic, and treatment continuity for patients with chronic diseases