Abstract
Due to the increasing prevalence of diabetes and the shortage of endocrinologists, family physicians have an important role in diabetes management. The purpose of this study was to examine the sources of knowledge, attitudes and practices of family physicians regarding the management of type 2 diabetes. Attendees at continuous medical education (CME) programs in Israel were requested to respond anonymously to written questions about their sources of knowledge about diabetes, the methods of diabetes management they advise their patients, their knowledge of diabetes medication treatments, and their attitudes toward people with type 2 diabetes. Questionnaires were completed by 362 family physicians (79 % response rate). Of them, 329 (91 %) reported that they usually manage their patients’ diabetes care, including that of patients with concomitant risk factors. Their most common recommendations for diabetes control were: to increase physical activity, decrease total calorie intake, consult with a dietitian and undergo weight loss counseling. Almost all physicians (97 %) reported providing lifestyle change counseling. Sixty percent reported lacking knowledge about nutritional issues. Only 58 % answered correctly regarding the effect of the anti-diabetic drug, GLP1 analog. Board certified family physicians and their residents exhibited more knowledge about diabetes practice than did non-board certified family physicians. The great majority of family physicians surveyed usually manage their patients’ diabetes themselves, and do not refer them to diabetes specialists. The implementation of strategies that will enhance the competencies and confidence of family physicians in diabetes management are important for achieving successful treatment.
Highlights
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern worldwide
The purpose of this study was to examine the sources of knowledge, attitudes and practices of family physicians regarding the management of type 2 diabetes
The implementation of strategies that will enhance the competencies and confidence of family physicians in diabetes management are important for achieving successful treatment
Summary
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major public health concern worldwide. Lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions are claimed to halve the development of type 2 diabetes among individuals at high risk [3, 4]. Israel has become a part of the worldwide epidemic of obesity and diabetes. An Israeli population-based study reported a rise in the direct medical costs of diabetes in a health maintenance organization (HMO) setting [5]. A study of an urban population in the center of Israel showed prevalence rates of adultonset diabetes as 21 % among Arabs and 12 % among Jews [6]. The high prevalence of diabetes and its substantial health-economic burden call for timely and efficient screening, diagnoses and management
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