Influence of Physician Specialty on Treatment Goals for Diabetic Patients : Results of a Survey given to the Members of the Ishikawa Medical Association

Abstract

BACKGROUND This survey examined how a physician's specialty may influence attitudes towards blood glucose control in diabetic patients. METHODS A questionnaire was mailed to all members of the Ishikawa Medical Association (n = 1,610) as well as diabetic specialists (n = 36) querying their specialties, confidence in offering diabetic treatment, and treatment goals/change levels of plasma glucose levels for 5 theoretical cases. RESULTS 301 physicians responded. The percentage answering treatment goal/change levels was 93% of internal medicine physicians (n = 145), 72% of surgeons (n = 29), 52% of pediatricians (n = 23) and 20% in other specialties (n = 99). The percentage answering “I am confident in offering diabetic treatment” was 57% of internal medicine physicians, 14% of surgeons, 13% of pediatricians and 3% in other specialties. There were significant differences among specialties in the fasting plasma glucose levels in the treatment goal, and the postprandial plasma glucose change levels. Internal medicine specialists tended to give higher glucose levels than other specialties. CONCLUSIONS The majority of physicians interested in diabetes care appear to be internal medicine specialists. Physician's specialty may influence their attitude toward glucose control in diabetic patients.