Introduction:

COVID-19 has paused elective procedures and delayed the diagnosis of multiple pathologies. Different proposals have been recommended for restarting elective procedures, including screening tests and a gradual restart.

Objective:

To know the perception of Latin American endoscopists regarding the restart of elective procedures, and how the availability of personal protection equipment (PPE) and prior testing may influence this perception.

Methods:

A web-based survey was developed by endoscopy experts, based in the development of endoscopy, availability of PPE and screening tests, which was distributed via e-mail, social media and direct contact by one author to several societies. Full response was obtained from 168 endoscopists during May 2020.

Results:

88% of surveyed endoscopists don’t screen for COVID-19 prior to endoscopy, however, 70% consider this appropriate. 80% affirm having PPE. 94% believe that endoscopic practice must be restarted as soon as possible.

Conclusions:

Latin American endoscopists with greater amount of PPE and prior testing for SARS-CoV-2 were more willing to restart elective procedures than those in limited scenarios.