Medical Students in Jordan: Attitudes Toward Volunteering During Pandemics
In March 2020, Jordan reported it’s first COVID-19 case, leading to a swift national response. A three-day curfew was imposed, followed by a near-total lockdown that lasted until the end of May 2020. During this period, hospitals only admitted emergency cases, while the government facilitated home delivery of medications for chronic disease patients with the help of volunteers. Medical students resumed their clinical training in hospitals in May 2020, while other students continued online education until October 2021.
A recent study conducted at the University of Jordan explored the attitudes of final-year medical students toward volunteering during pandemics. The cross-sectional questionnaire-based study, approved by the Jordan University hospital Institutional Review Board, surveyed 375 students from August to October 2021. The response rate was an extraordinary 96.4%.
The questionnaire,developed in English,gathered demographic data,personal histories,and attitudes toward volunteering. It included questions about prior voluntary work, willingness to volunteer during future pandemics, and opinions on whether volunteering should be optional or compulsory. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics,with results revealing intriguing insights.
Key Findings
- Demographics: The study included an equal number of male and female participants, with two-thirds being Jordanian. Most students had parents with education levels higher than high school.
- Volunteering Experience: Over half (55.2%) of the students had no prior volunteering experience before the pandemic. During the initial lockdown,81.3% did not volunteer, and 79.2% remained uninvolved afterward.
- Future Volunteering: Attitudes toward volunteering in future pandemics were mixed, with responses ranging from “yes,” “no,” or “conditional” based on factors like vaccine availability and personal protective equipment.
Table 1: General Characteristics of Participants (N = 375)
| Characteristic | Percentage |
|—————————–|—————-|
| male students | 50% |
| Female Students | 50% |
| Jordanian Students | 66.7% |
| Parents with Higher Education | 85% |
The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to encourage medical students to engage in voluntary work during crises.As future healthcare professionals, their involvement could be pivotal in managing pandemics effectively.For more insights into the challenges faced by medical students during COVID-19, explore related studies on knowledge and attitudes toward the pandemic and perceptions of online teaching.
What are yoru thoughts on making volunteering compulsory for medical students during pandemics? Share your views in the comments below.
Medical Students’ Willingness to Volunteer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Key Insights
Table of Contents
- Medical Students’ Willingness to Volunteer During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Key Insights
- Medical Students’ Willingness to Volunteer During Pandemics: Insights from Recent Studies
- Medical students in Jordan Step Up During COVID-19 Crisis
- The Role of Medical Students in Jordan’s Pandemic Response
- Ethical Considerations and Informed Consent
- Funding and Disclosure
- Key Insights from the Study
- Global Context
- Conclusion
- The Call to Action: Medical Students as Volunteers
- Ethical Dilemmas and Institutional Duty
- Motivations Behind Volunteerism
- Lessons from History
- Key Takeaways
- Looking Ahead
- The Role of Medical Students in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities
- Teh Role of Medical students in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities
The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the world, and medical students were no exception. A recent study involving 375 medical students revealed critical insights into their willingness to participate in voluntary work during the crisis, shedding light on their motivations, fears, and attitudes.
Voluntary Work During the pandemic
The study found that male students were more likely to volunteer during the initial total lockdown,with a statistically notable P-value of 0.021. Additionally, Jordanian students had the highest rate of participation in voluntary work both before and during the pandemic. Their contributions included delivering medications to patients’ homes, administering COVID-19 vaccines, collecting samples from suspected cases, and participating in public awareness campaigns. Notably,this voluntary work did not involve providing clinical care to patients.
Willingness to Engage in Future Voluntary Work
A significant majority of participants (60.8%) expressed willingness to participate in future voluntary work, provided it did not involve patients infected with COVID-19. However,29.3% of students indicated that their willingness to engage in clinical voluntary work depended on the type of pandemic and the availability of vaccines.
Reasons for Not Volunteering
When asked about their reluctance to volunteer during the pandemic, the most common reason cited was the fear of getting infected or infecting family members. Other barriers included limited time for studying, lack of confidence in delivering useful voluntary work, and not being vaccinated against the virus.
Attitudes Toward Voluntary Work
The study also explored students’ attitudes toward participating in clinical services and non-medical voluntary work. A striking 86.1% of students believed that participating in voluntary work involving patients infected with the pandemic causative agent should be optional. In contrast, 10.1% thoght it should be compulsory, provided vaccines were available.
Key Findings at a Glance
| Aspect | Findings |
|—————————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Gender Differences | Male students more likely to volunteer during lockdown (P = 0.021). |
| Nationality Trends | Jordanian students had the highest participation rate.|
| Future Willingness | 60.8% willing to volunteer if it doesn’t involve COVID-19 patients. |
| Barriers to Volunteering | fear of infection, limited study time, lack of confidence, and no vaccination. |
| Attitudes Toward Clinical Work | 86.1% believe it should be optional; 10.1% think it should be compulsory. |
Discussion
The findings highlight the profound impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical students’ willingness to volunteer. While many were eager to contribute,concerns about personal safety and academic responsibilities played a significant role in their decisions. These insights underscore the need for clear guidelines, adequate support, and accessible resources to encourage voluntary participation during future health crises.
For more detailed data, refer to the full study Medical Students’ Willingness to Volunteer During Pandemics: Insights from Recent Studies
The COVID-19 pandemic has tested the resilience of healthcare systems worldwide, with medical students playing a unique role in the response.Recent studies shed light on the factors influencing their willingness to volunteer, the challenges they face, and the lessons learned for future pandemics. Medical students have been a topic of debate during the COVID-19 crisis. While some argue they are not essential compared to medical residents and staff, others highlight their potential contributions. A study in New Jersey found that medical students were more educated and willing to work during infectious outbreaks than their peers in pharmacy and nursing.However, concerns about their lack of clinical experience and the risk of transmitting infections to family members have led to cautious recommendations. As one study noted, “medical students should not come in direct contact with COVID-19-infected patients unless they are provided with adequate personal protective equipment and training.” This sentiment was echoed in Nigeria, where 82.7% of respondents said they would volunteer if given proper protective gear, and 79.3% would do so if adequately trained. Prior volunteering experience considerably impacted students’ willingness to participate during the pandemic. In Jordan, 44.8% of students had volunteered before COVID-19, but only 20.8% did so during the pandemic. Similarly, a study in Poland found that 70.1% of students had prior volunteering experience, which boosted their confidence in patient care. Male students were more likely to volunteer during the initial lockdown,a trend consistent with previous studies. Additionally, students living in Amman, Jordan’s capital, and those with access to personal transportation were more active in volunteering efforts. Interestingly,the decision to volunteer after the initial lockdown was not influenced by the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses received by students or their household contacts. By the time the study was conducted, 99.2% of students had received at least one vaccine dose, compared to 79.7% of their households. Despite their willingness, many medical students faced barriers to volunteering. Limited study time, lack of confidence in their ability to contribute, and fear of infection were common concerns. As one study revealed, “medical students were reluctant to attend clinics for fear of getting the infection or passing it to others.” When asked about their willingness to participate in future pandemics, 60.8% of students expressed readiness to engage in non-clinical voluntary work, while 56.3% were willing to provide supervised clinical care, even without vaccines. However, 29.3% said their participation would depend on the type of pandemic and vaccine availability. | Factor | Impact on Volunteering | Medical students represent a valuable resource during pandemics, but their involvement must be carefully managed. Providing adequate training, protective equipment, and addressing their concerns can enhance their contributions. As one study aptly put it, “volunteering in the medical field builds students’ confidence in their knowledge and ability to care for patients.” For future pandemics, fostering a supportive environment for medical students will be crucial in harnessing their potential while ensuring their safety and well-being. What are your thoughts on the role of medical students during pandemics? Share your insights in the comments below.Medical Students and Volunteering During Pandemics: A Global perspective The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, and medical students found themselves at the crossroads of duty and personal safety. A recent study sheds light on the factors influencing their willingness to volunteer during such crises, revealing a complex interplay of fear, ethical obligations, and systemic support. one of the most striking findings was the role of fear in deterring medical students from volunteering. The study found that the risk of being infected or infecting family members was the most common reason for reluctance. This aligns with previous research, which identified fear of infection as a primary barrier to volunteering during the pandemic. However, this sentiment was not worldwide. A study from Germany revealed that fear of infection was the least vital factor, with lack of interest, personal health issues, and insufficient knowledge being more significant deterrents. Similarly, in saudi Arabia, 68.42% of participants disagreed that fear was a major reason for not volunteering.| Factors Influencing Volunteering | Common Reasons | the study also highlighted a divide in students’ perceptions of their ethical obligations. While 39.4% of participants believed that medical students have a professional duty to volunteer, the majority (62.3%) viewed it as a moral choice rather than a mandate. This underscores the need for ethical frameworks that respect individual autonomy while addressing the urgent demands of health emergencies. A recurring theme in the research was the importance of adequate training and protective measures. Students expressed a willingness to contribute, provided they were equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources. This echoes findings from Switzerland and France, where medical students supported frontline healthcare workers, and from the US and Brazil, where they participated in public health awareness campaigns. the study’s scope was limited to senior-year medical students from one university in Jordan,which may not reflect the attitudes of students in other regions or earlier stages of their education. Future research should explore these dynamics across diverse cultural and systemic contexts to provide a more comprehensive understanding. Medical students represent a valuable resource during pandemics, capable of delivering both medical and non-medical services. Though, their participation hinges on adequate training, protective measures, and respect for their autonomy. as the world continues to grapple with emerging health challenges, integrating pandemic preparedness into medical curricula will be crucial. For more insights into the role of medical students during health emergencies, explore this comprehensive analysis of global responses to COVID-19. what are your thoughts on the ethical obligations of medical students during pandemics? Share your perspective in the comments below. The COVID-19 pandemic has tested healthcare systems worldwide, and Jordan is no exception.A recent study conducted at Jordan University Hospital sheds light on the critical role medical students played during this unprecedented crisis. The research, which received ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB) committee (no.: 2021/363), highlights the dedication and resilience of these future healthcare professionals. As the pandemic surged, medical students in Jordan stepped up to support overwhelmed healthcare systems. The study, which involved a questionnaire distributed to students, revealed their willingness to volunteer despite the risks. “We are grateful to all the medical students who responded to our request to answer the questionnaire,” the researchers noted, acknowledging the contributions of participants like Amani Nofal, who assisted in distributing and collecting responses. This initiative aligns with global trends,as seen in studies from the United Kingdom and Germany,where medical students also played pivotal roles in pandemic response efforts. The study adhered strictly to IRB regulations, ensuring ethical standards were maintained throughout. completion of the questionnaire was considered informed consent, a practice that underscores the importance of clarity and participant autonomy in research. Interestingly, this research received no external funding, highlighting the resourcefulness of the team. the authors also declared no competing interests, ensuring the integrity of their findings. | Aspect | Details | Jordan’s experience mirrors global efforts, such as those in Nigeria, where medical and dental students volunteered during the pandemic.Similarly,German medical students were surveyed about their attitudes toward volunteering,revealing complex ethical considerations. The dedication of Jordan’s medical students during the COVID-19 crisis is a testament to their commitment to healthcare. As the world continues to navigate the pandemic, their contributions serve as a reminder of the vital role young professionals play in global health. For more insights into pandemic responses, explore how other countries, like the United Kingdom and Germany, mobilized their medical students during this challenging time. call to Action: Share your thoughts on the role of medical students in pandemic response. How can we better support these future healthcare leaders? Join the conversation below!n# Medical Students’ Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Global Perspective The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the world in unprecedented ways, and the medical community has been at the forefront of this crisis. Among the many groups impacted, medical students have found themselves in a unique position—caught between their educational responsibilities and the urgent need for healthcare support. A recent study published in Cureus sheds light on the involvement of medical students during the pandemic, revealing a complex interplay of motivations, challenges, and ethical considerations. As healthcare systems worldwide struggled to cope with the surge in COVID-19 cases, many medical students stepped up to volunteer.According to a cross-sectional survey conducted in Indonesia, a significant majority of students expressed a willingness to volunteer, driven by a sense of duty and the desire to contribute to the fight against the virus. This sentiment was echoed in a study from Poland, where students actively participated in voluntary services, ranging from patient care to public health education. However, the decision to volunteer was not without its challenges. Concerns about personal safety, lack of adequate training, and the potential disruption of academic progress were common themes. As one student noted,“We want to help,but we also need to ensure we are not putting ourselves or others at risk.” The involvement of medical students in pandemic response efforts has sparked a broader debate about institutional responsibility. A perspective piece in Academic Medicine argued that medical students should not be considered essential workers, emphasizing the need for clear guidelines and support from educational institutions. This view was further explored in a study published in BMC Medical Education, which highlighted the ethical implications of recruiting students to care for COVID-19 patients. The authors stressed the importance of balancing the immediate need for manpower with the long-term well-being and professional growth of students. What drives medical students to volunteer during a global health crisis? A large cross-sectional survey in China identified several key factors,including altruism,the desire to gain practical experience,and the influence of role models. Interestingly, students who had prior experience in volunteer work were more likely to step forward during the pandemic. This aligns with findings from a study in India, which found that students who viewed their role as a social responsibility were more willing to engage in pandemic-related activities. As one participant stated, “This is our chance to make a difference and show what we are capable of.” The COVID-19 pandemic is not the first time medical students have been called upon during a health crisis. Past accounts from the 1918 influenza pandemic and the 1952 polio epidemic in Copenhagen highlight the critical role students have played in past emergencies. These examples underscore the importance of preparing future healthcare professionals for similar challenges. | Aspect | Key Findings | As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the experiences of medical students offer valuable lessons for future crises. Ensuring that students are adequately prepared, supported, and protected will be crucial in harnessing their potential as a vital part of the healthcare workforce. What are your thoughts on the role of medical students during the pandemic? Share your insights in the comments below. — The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented demands on healthcare systems worldwide, prompting the mobilization of medical students as a critical frontline force. However, this deployment was not without its challenges. From fears of underpreparedness to the complexities of volunteering, the experiences of medical students during the pandemic reveal both barriers and opportunities for future crisis responses. A study by Misra et al. highlighted that undergraduate medical students in India felt underprepared to serve as a young taskforce against COVID-19. The research, published in medRxiv, found that “prevalent fears” among students stemmed from inadequate training and exposure to pandemic-level healthcare demands. This sentiment underscores the need for enhanced preparedness in medical education to equip students for future public health emergencies. In Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional study by AlOmar et al. explored the barriers and facilitators of volunteering among healthcare students during the pandemic. Published in BMJ Open, the study identified key factors such as personal safety concerns, family opposition, and lack of institutional support as significant barriers. Conversely, a sense of duty, peer influence, and structured volunteering programs acted as facilitators. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing student concerns while fostering a culture of civic responsibility. Globally, medical students played diverse roles in the pandemic response. Stachteas et al. discussed the deployment of medical students in Greece, noting their contributions to telemedicine, public health campaigns, and hospital support. Their work, published in Med Sci Educ, highlights the adaptability of students in crisis situations. Similarly, Stokes advocated for proactive involvement of senior medical students in the U.S., arguing that their skills could alleviate healthcare burdens. In Switzerland, Klasen et al. described how medical students formed “SWAB teams” to assist with testing and contact tracing. Their article in Med Educ underscores the value of integrating students into frontline roles while ensuring their safety and education. Pelaccia et al. reflected on the lessons learned from deploying medical students during the pandemic. Their study in Intern Emerg Med concluded that while student involvement was beneficial, it required careful planning, adequate training, and clear communication. Soled et al. echoed this sentiment, sharing insights from a COVID-19 medical student response team in the U.S. Their work in Acad Med emphasized the importance of structured mobilization and mentorship. In Brazil, Villela et al. highlighted the engagement of medical students in public health initiatives, such as community education and vaccination campaigns. Their article in Med Educ demonstrates the potential for students to contribute meaningfully to public health efforts beyond clinical settings. | Aspect | Key insight | The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the potential of medical students as a vital resource in public health crises. However, their involvement must be supported by robust training, clear guidelines, and institutional backing. As healthcare systems prepare for future challenges, integrating students into emergency response plans will be essential.What are your thoughts on the role of medical students in pandemic responses? Share your insights and join the conversation on how we can better prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. The COVID-19 pandemic placed unprecedented demands on healthcare systems worldwide, prompting the mobilization of medical students as a critical frontline force. However, this deployment was not without its challenges. From fears of underpreparedness to the complexities of volunteering, the experiences of medical students during the pandemic reveal both barriers and opportunities for future crisis responses. A study by Misra et al. highlighted that undergraduate medical students in India felt underprepared to serve as a young taskforce against COVID-19. The research, published in medRxiv, found that “prevalent fears” among students stemmed from inadequate training and exposure to pandemic-level healthcare demands. This sentiment underscores the need for enhanced preparedness in medical education to equip students for future public health emergencies. In Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional study by AlOmar et al.explored the barriers and facilitators of volunteering among healthcare students during the pandemic. Published in BMJ Open, the study identified key factors such as personal safety concerns, family opposition, and lack of institutional support as notable barriers. Conversely, a sense of duty, peer influence, and structured volunteering programs acted as facilitators. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing student concerns while fostering a culture of civic responsibility. Globally, medical students played diverse roles in the pandemic response. Stachteas et al. discussed the deployment of medical students in Greece, noting their contributions to telemedicine, public health campaigns, and hospital support. Their work,published in Med Sci Educ,highlights the adaptability of students in crisis situations. Similarly, Stokes advocated for proactive involvement of senior medical students in the U.S., arguing that their skills could alleviate healthcare burdens. In Switzerland, Klasen et al. described how medical students formed “SWAB teams” to assist with testing and contact tracing. Their article in Med Educ underscores the value of integrating students into frontline roles while ensuring their safety and education. pelaccia et al. reflected on the lessons learned from deploying medical students during the pandemic. Their study in Intern emerg Med concluded that while student involvement was beneficial, it required careful planning, adequate training, and clear communication.Soled et al. echoed this sentiment, sharing insights from a COVID-19 medical student response team in the U.S. Their work in Acad Med emphasized the importance of structured mobilization and mentorship. In Brazil, Villela et al. highlighted the engagement of medical students in public health initiatives, such as community education and vaccination campaigns. Their article in Med Educ demonstrates the potential for students to contribute meaningfully to public health efforts beyond clinical settings.The Role of Medical Students in Pandemic Response
Factors Influencing volunteering Decisions
Previous Experience
Gender and Location
Vaccination Status
Challenges and Reluctance
Future Willingness to Volunteer
Key Takeaways
|———————————|——————————————————————————————-|
| Previous Volunteering Experience| Increased willingness to volunteer |
| Gender | Male students more likely to volunteer during lockdown |
| Location | Students in urban areas with transportation were more active |
| Vaccination Status | No significant impact on post-lockdown volunteering decisions |
| Training and PPE | Adequate training and protective equipment are critical for student involvement |Conclusion
Fear of Infection: A Global Divide
|————————————–|——————–|
| Fear of Infection | High in some regions, low in others |
| Lack of Interest | Significant in germany and Saudi Arabia |
| Personal Health Issues | Cited in multiple studies |
| Lack of Time | Due to academic or work commitments | ethical Obligations and Autonomy
The Role of Training and Support
limitations and Future Directions
Conclusion
Medical students in Jordan Step Up During COVID-19 Crisis
The Role of Medical Students in Jordan’s Pandemic Response
Ethical Considerations and Informed Consent
Funding and Disclosure
Key Insights from the Study
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Ethical Approval | Obtained from Jordan University Hospital IRB (no.: 2021/363) |
| Participant Involvement | Medical students, including Amani nofal, contributed to data collection |
| Funding | No external funds received |
| Disclosure | Authors declared no competing interests | Global Context
Conclusion
The Call to Action: Medical Students as Volunteers
Ethical Dilemmas and Institutional Duty
Motivations Behind Volunteerism
Lessons from History
Key Takeaways
|—————————|———————————————————————————|
| Willingness to Volunteer | Majority of students expressed a desire to contribute, driven by altruism and duty. |
| Challenges | Concerns about safety, training, and academic disruption were common. |
| Ethical Considerations | Debate over institutional responsibility and the role of students as essential workers.|
| Motivations | Altruism, practical experience, and social responsibility were primary drivers. |
| Historical Context | medical students have played vital roles in past pandemics, such as the 1918 flu. |Looking Ahead
For more in-depth analysis, explore the full study on medical students’ involvement during COVID-19 in Cureus. Stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in healthcare and education.The Role of Medical Students in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities
Underpreparedness and Fear Among indian medical Students
Barriers and Facilitators of Volunteering
Global Perspectives on Medical Student Deployment
Lessons Learned and Future Implications
Key Takeaways
|————————–|———————————————————————————|
| Underpreparedness | Indian medical students felt inadequately trained for pandemic roles. |
| Volunteering Barriers| Safety concerns and lack of support hindered student participation. |
| Global Contributions | Students worldwide assisted in testing, telemedicine, and public health efforts.|
| Lessons Learned | Structured planning and mentorship are crucial for effective student deployment.| Moving forward
Teh Role of Medical students in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities
Underpreparedness and Fear Among medical Students
Barriers and Facilitators of Volunteering
Global perspectives on Medical Student Deployment
Lessons Learned and Future Implications
Key takeaways
| Aspect | Key Insight |
|---|---|
| Underpreparedness | Indian medical students felt inadequately trained for pandemic roles. |
| Volunteering Barriers | Safety concerns and lack of support hindered student participation. |
| global Contributions | Students worldwide assisted in testing, telemedicine, and public health efforts. |
| lessons Learned | Structured planning and mentorship are crucial for effective student deployment. |
Moving Forward
The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the potential of medical students as a vital resource in public health crises. However, their involvement must be supported by robust training, clear guidelines, and institutional backing. As healthcare systems prepare for future challenges, integrating students into emergency response plans will be essential. What are your thoughts on the role of medical students in pandemic responses? Share your insights and join the conversation on how we can better prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.
For more in-depth analysis, explore the full study on medical students’ involvement during COVID-19 in Cureus.Stay informed and engaged with the latest developments in healthcare and education.
