The information needs of the Iranian people in the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspective of health professionals: A qualitative approach

Abstract

Aims: The COVID-19 pandemic led to widespread concern, rumors, and fears in different countries. This study aimed to identify the information needs of the Iranian people regarding the pandemic. Participants & Methods: A qualitative study using a content analysis approach was conducted to collect experts' opinions on identifying the information needs of the Iranian people regarding the COVID-19 virus from March to May 2020. Key informants were purposefully selected from the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Isfahan and Tehran University of Medical Sciences Hospitals. The saturation point was reached at 19 face-to-face semi-structured interviews. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview. The data collection instrument was the interview guide form. The interviews were analyzed by MAXQDA 12. Findings: The findings were divided into two sections, including channels and sources of information and people's information needs about the COVID-19 virus. In the first part, two main themes and eight categories were identified. Four themes and twenty-three subthemes on information needs regarding the COVID-19 virus were extracted. ). Themes related to information needs regarding COVID-19 were as follows: Information regarding an alternative lifestyle due to COVID-19 Pandemic, Information regarding mental health issues, Information regarding sanitation and hygienic requirements, and Information regarding medical issues. Conclusions: The correct information is the key to achieve success in mitigation measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. Identifying people's information needs about COVID-19 will also help governments produce better educational content. © 2021, the Authors.