Concussion education in medical students studying in Scotland: an assessment of knowledge and future needs

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Physicians play a key role in ensuring athletes with concussion safely return to sport. Research has shown deficiencies in concussion education amongst physicians and medical students. However, studies have not previously been conducted in UK medical schools. Objectives To assess students’ concussion knowledge and learning in Scottish Medical Schools. Design A survey with 23 questions was distributed to Year 3–6 medical students studying in Scotland in October 2020. The survey included the following: (1) demographics, (2) concussion knowledge, e.g. ‘What is the role of headgear in preventing concussion?’ (3) concussion learning, ‘In which part of the curriculum should concussion be taught?.’ Frequencies of responses were calculated for each question. Results 200 students responded (response rate 8%). The average symptoms and management score were 87.3% and 31% respectively. 15% of participants knew that headgear has no role in preventing concussions and one participant identified the minimum “return to sport” timeframes for adults and children. 15% had learnt about concussion at medical school with 92.5% interested in receiving concussion teaching at medical school. Conclusion Knowledge gaps exist in managing and preventing sports-related concussion. There is a discrepancy between levels of concussion teaching and the desire and importance placed on concussion education.