Physician Knowledge Research Articles

Concept of Varna in Charaka Samhita

Ayurveda which is unique in its origin, observations and documentation of diseases and its treatment has added beauty in understanding the prognosis too. Acharya’s have not left any area untouched related with preventive and curative aspect of diseases. Ayurveda classifies disease as mainly two i.e., Sadhya and Asadhya. This classification is very important to know the prognosis of disease rather than diagnosis, otherwise it can lead to loss of social respect, money and knowledge of physician. For the proper knowledge of Asadhya Laxana’s there is description of Arishta’s in Samhita Grantha’s. The whole Indriya Sthana of Charaka Samhita (12 chapters), 5 chapters (28 - 33 ) of Sushruta Samhita Sutrasthana and in 2 chapters (5-6) of Ashtanga Hrudaya Sharirasthana different types of Arishta’s are clearly mentioned which are helpful to explain the prognosis of a patient. Along with Charaka Samhita, Bhela Samhita, Kashyapa Samhita and Harita Samhita also included Indriya Sthana. A total of 47 factors are mentioned to look into for the prognosis. These are again basically grouped under 2 factors i.e., those signs and symptoms which are lodged in subject and those which are understood by inauspicious signs. Thus, it covers all the Laxana’s starting from Pratyaksha Bhava’s to Anumanagamya Bhava’s. In this article, Varna which is one among the 47 factors is been explained from Indriya Sthana as well as from other Sthana’s is been reviewed.

Antibiotics Usage and Avoidance in Germany and Poland: Attitudes and Knowledge of Patients, Physicians, and Pharmacists

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance poses a significant global health threat, partly due to the overprescription of antibiotics. Understanding prescribers’ behaviors and identifying knowledge gaps and misconceptions are essential for addressing antibiotic misuse and inappropriate use. Methods: Through online questionnaires, this study surveyed key stakeholders in outpatient antibiotic use in Germany (DE) and Poland (PL), including patients, physicians, and pharmacists. Results: Despite generally good knowledge about antibiotics, discrepancies exist between physicians’ perceptions and patients’ actual expectations regarding antibiotic prescriptions. Physicians often misjudge patients’ attitudes toward antibiotics, with many patients having a neutral stance. This study found a strong physician interest in non-antibiotic treatments and patient willingness to engage with information about antibiotics. Conclusions: Improved communication between healthcare providers and patients was identified as a potential measure for enhancing antimicrobial stewardship, with education on effective alternative treatments, such as symptomatic therapies, as a likely strategy to reduce antibiotic reliance.

Knowledge, Attitude, And Practice of Dermatologists and Family Physicians Regarding Probiotics in Atopic Dermatitis in Saudi Arabia

Background: Despite the growing evidence of significant probiotics’ role in various diseases, including dermatological conditions, there is limited data on awareness dermatologists and family phsycians about its role in atopic dermatitis in Saudi Arabia. Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of dermatologists and family physicians regarding probiotics in atopic dermatitis in Saudi Arabia Methods: This study was a web-based cross-sectional study. Data were collected via an online questionnaire, targeting dermatologists and family physicians from different Saudi regions.The questionnaire included closed-ended questions on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice of probiotic in atopic dermatits. Knowledge level and atitude scoring were assessed and compared based on participants’ characteristics. Results: The study analyzed responses from 273 participants, with a mean age of 34.5 ± 8.3 years. The majority of respondents were dermatologists (71.8%). Among the participants, 23.1% demonstrated good knowledge about probiotics in relation to atopic dermatitis, with a significantly higher level of knowledge observed among consultants (38.5%), dermatologists (24%), and those with 10 or more years of experience. While most respondents displayed a positive attitude toward the use of probiotics, actual prescription rates were low. Notably, 53.8% of participants did not engage in prescribing probiotics, and only 33.3% monitored patient outcomes associated with their use. The main barrier identified was a lack of knowledge, with 66.7% of respondents citing this as a significant challenge. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for improved educational resources to enhance healthcare providers' understanding and confidence in using probiotics for atopic dermatitis. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on probiotics and underscores the need for targeted interventions to support healthcare professionals in delivering evidence-based care.

Acceptance, knowledge, and attitude of family physicians towards obesity as a chronic disease: a multinational cross-sectional study.

Obesity was previously perceived to be a lifestyle issue; however, it was declared a chronic disease by the American Medical Association (AMA) in 2013. However, family physician's views and actions toward managing obesity remain ambiguous and occasionally conflicting. This cross-sectional study explores the acceptance and knowledge of 171 family medicine physicians regarding obesity as a chronic disease. Family physicians were recruited through different channels, including members of professional scientific societies of family medicine that belong to the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA) Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office EMRO, a publicly available list of United States (US) family physicians, and authors' personal Facebook and LinkedIn connections. Data was collected across various countries through an anonymous online survey. While most participants acknowledged obesity as a chronic condition with multifactorial origins, there was a notable discrepancy in treatment practices compared to other chronic diseases. A dual perspective emerged, as family physicians often emphasized self-responsibility and behavioral change over medical interventions, potentially hindering effective management. Lower initiation rates for obesity management was exhibited compared to other chronic diseases. There is a gap between recognition and effective management of obesity as a chronic disease within family practice. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive obesity education in medical training to bridge knowledge gaps and reduce weight stigma, enabling physicians to provide optimal care for patients with obesity.

Physicians and hospital pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards polypharmacy in older patients with chronic diseases

This web-based cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians and hospital pharmacists towards polypharmacy in older adult patients with chronic diseases in China. This study enrolled 374 physicians and pharmacists (270 females, 92 physicians) in 20 Chinese provinces between December 2022 and March 2023. The knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 12.65 ± 2.05 (possible range, 0–18), 29.07 ± 2.68 (possible range, 7–35), and 26.16 ± 5.56 (possible range, 7–35), respectively. Working as a hospital pharmacist (vs. physician) was independently associated with adequate knowledge (OR = 2.190; 95% CI = 1.291–2.713; P = 0.004). Working in a tertiary hospital (OR = 4.296; 95% CI = 1.390-13.272; P = 0.011) was independently associated with a positive attitude. Knowledge score (OR = 1.176; 95%CI = 1.038–1.333; P = 0.011), hospital pharmacist (OR = 0.276; 95% CI = 0.137–0.557; P < 0.001), master’s degree or higher (OR = 1.754; 95% CI = 1.011–3.045; P = 0.046) and senior professional title (OR = 2.020; 95% CI = 1.032–3.952; P = 0.040) were independently associated with proactive practice toward polypharmacy in older adults. Physicians and hospital pharmacists had favorable knowledge, positive attitudes, and proactive practice toward polypharmacy. In conclusion, enhancing knowledge through continuous education, promoting interprofessional collaboration, educating patients, and conducting regular evaluations for quality improvement are necessary to improve the KAP of healthcare professionals toward polypharmacy in older adults.

"Don't give up, advocate for yourself": A pilot study examining healthcare experiences of people with Mayer Rokitansky Küster Hauser syndrome (MRKH).

Mayer Rokitansky Küster Hauser syndrome (MRKH) is characterized by the underdevelopment or absence of the uterus and upper vagina. Navigating healthcare interactions may present unique challenges for those with MRKH as there appears to be sparse clinical education and research available to healthcare providers. Additionally, limited research exists on the healthcare experiences of people with MRKH. This pilot study investigated the diagnostic journeys, post-diagnosis experiences, current healthcare interactions, and attitudes toward the healthcare system among individuals with MRKH. Participants with MRKH residing in the United States or Canada took part in semi-structured interviews on their MRKH-related healthcare experiences. Interview transcripts were thematically analyzed. People with MRKH conveyed that: 1) MRKH was not well known by healthcare providers and they were seldom provided with information and resources about MRKH, 2) they often needed to advocate for themselves in the healthcare system to receive adequate care, 3) sensitivity, inclusion, and knowledge from healthcare providers was invaluable, and 4) healthcare-system level barriers prohibited access to adequate care. Information and resources for MRKH patients should be age appropriate, patient-centered, trauma informed, and locally based. Providers should have access to evidence-based information and resources about MRKH, which includes knowledge of local specialist physicians, mental health specialists, pelvic health physical therapists, and other allied health professionals. Providers should also limit assumptions and use sensitive and inclusive language when communicating with patients around MRKH diagnosis, education, and development of treatment plans. Lastly, strategies for mitigating healthcare barriers should consider those with MRKH.

An Assessment of KAP Towards LTBI in Under-5 Children among Physicians Treating Adult/Adolescent TB Patients in Dhaka City

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Introduction:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; LTBI is the precursor to TB, making early detection and treatment of infected children vital to preventing pediatric morbidity and mortality. This study assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians treating adult and adolescent TB patients in managing LTBI among under-5 children in Dhaka. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Aim of the study:&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt; The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practices of physicians treating adult and adolescent tuberculosis patients in Dhaka City regarding the diagnosis and management of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) in under-5 children. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Methods: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;This six-month cross-sectional, semi-qualitative study was conducted from January to June 2020 at the Department of Paediatrics in five Dhaka hospitals, involving 50 physicians treating adult and adolescent TB patients. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires, with consent obtained, and qualitative responses categorized and scored using SPSS Version 25.0. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Result: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;Among 50 physicians, most were aged 30-39, and 62% had recent TB training. Knowledge of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) was limited, with only 14% accurately defining it, while 88% acknowledged isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) availability. Only 12% inquired about family members of pulmonary TB patients, and 10% asked about under-five children. A significant 80% had no involvement in managing LTBI in children, with just 6% prescribing IPT. Additionally, 84% believed IPT could cause drug resistance, and those with recent training scored higher in knowledge. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusion: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;This KAP study identifies key barriers to LTBI tracing and IPT/TPT implementation in children under five, emphasizing the need for structured training to enhance physician practices.

From emergency room to operating room: multidisciplinary simulation training in emergency laparotomy for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm – learning outcomes and costs

ObjectivesOpportunities to practice emergency laparotomy (EL)1 and open surgical repair (OSR)2 for a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA)3 are limited. While simulation-based training (SBT)4 is effective in educating healthcare professionals in medical emergencies, SBT specifically in EL and OSR for rAAA is scarce. It takes a team to diagnose a patient with massive abdominal bleeding, such as in rAAA, to organize primary care, and to provide definite treatment without unnecessary delays. This study investigated the effects of multidisciplinary EL simulation training in OSR for rAAA, from the emergency room (ER)5 to the operating room (OR)6, on trainees’ learning outcomes and the costs of the training. MethodsA total of 162 healthcare professionals in 21 simulated emergency laparotomy teams participated in a structured 2-hour course consisting of an introductory lecture and a simulation scenario followed by debriefing. Data were collected using a pre-post self-assessment questionnaire and the T-NOTECHS7 scale. Implementation costs and the cost of education were calculated. ResultsSimulation training improved knowledge, skills, and attitudes of both physicians and nurses. Most of the non-technical skills studied were significantly enhanced in both professional groups. The total cost of the simulation training was €29 415, cost per team €1 400 and cost per participant €182. ConclusionsMultidisciplinary EL simulation training in OSR for rAAA from the ER to the OR is effective in improving knowledge, skills, and attitudes, as well as non-technical skills among both physicians and nurses. The overall costs of training seem reasonable given the significant learning outcomes.

Assessment of Physician Knowledge and Practices Regarding Familial Hypercholesterolemia Screening and Management: A Survey Study

Assessment of Physician Knowledge and Practices Regarding Familial Hypercholesterolemia Screening and Management: A Survey Study

Assessment of knowledge, perceptions, and readiness of healthcare professionals towards clinical pharmacogenomics implementation in Qatar: a mixed-method study.

Pharmacogenomics implementation in clinical practice is anticipated to improve our understanding of individual variations in drug response and optimise the safety and efficacy of drug therapy. We aimed to assess the knowledge, perceptions, and readiness of physicians, pharmacists, and nurses in Qatar regarding the implementation of clinical pharmacogenomics. A mixed-method study with an explanatory sequential design was conducted. Phase I was the quantitative phase which involved sending an online survey to physicians, pharmacists, and nurses. Phase II was the qualitative phase which involved conducting focus group discussions. A total of 802 responses were collected, with a response rate of 20%. Only 15.4% of participants had previous pharmacogenomics-related training. The median knowledge score for healthcare professionals was 4 out of 10 denoting low level of knowledge. However, compared to other professions, pharmacists had a higher knowledge score (p-value <0.001) and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) holders scored higher than BSc holders (p-value <0.001). Despite the low level of knowledge, perceptions of healthcare professionals were positive. In addition, the majority believed knowledge of pharmacogenomics is necessary and that counselling patients on pharmacogenomics requires specialised training pharmacogenomic principles in practice. The main themes extracted from the focus group discussions were knowledge, outcome expectations, preparedness, facilitators, barriers, public education, and implementation planning. Regarding readiness, most healthcare professionals reported that they are not currently confident in applying. Healthcare providers have a low level of knowledge of pharmacogenomics. Despite this, the majority have positive perceptions towards its implementation in practice. Compared to other professionals, pharmacists with a PharmD degree scored higher in the knowledge assessment. Most healthcare providers report low confidence regarding the readiness for the implementation of pharmacogenomics and report a lack of knowledge, specialised training, and clinical guidelines as barriers.

Abstract 4136462: Provider understanding of Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring (CAC) testing in Atherosclerotic CArdiovascular Disease risk stratification and Racial Disparities Study (CAC-CARD) to reduce healthcare disparities

Background: Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) scoring is critical in assessing Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk. Despite its utility, many primary care physicians lack confidence and familiarity with its application. Significant racial disparities in CAC scoring utilization have been observed, potentially affecting patient outcomes. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that a short targeted educational intervention would enhance physicians' confidence, knowledge, and utilization of CAC scoring and awareness of racial disparities. Methods: A pre- and post-intervention study (Image 1) was conducted among 39 physicians at the University of Louisville. The intervention included a 20-minute educational session on CAC scoring and racial disparities. A video summarizing the ACC2018 guidelines for prevention and cholesterol treatment was provided. A summary of key points for clinical practice was given. The ASCVD plus calculator app was provided. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire before and after the intervention. Viewing time and engagement were recorded. Descriptive and inferential statistics analyzed the data. Results: The average correct physician responses increased from a mean of 59.5% pre-intervention to 92.0% post-intervention. Post-intervention, the number of physicians who felt confident or very confident in CAC testing increased from 17.9% to 94.8%. Additionally, 33 out of 39 physicians (84.6%) reported likely to use CAC testing more frequently. Correct responses on racial disparities improved from 59% pre-intervention to 92.0% post-intervention. (Image 2). The average viewing time was 28 minutes. Time spent on the questionnaires was 14 min pre and 12 min post. Conclusion: Our targeted educational intervention significantly enhanced physicians' knowledge and confidence in CAC scoring for ASCVD risk assessment and raised awareness about racial disparities, promoting more equitable practices.

Abstract 4112926: Echocardiography in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Virtual Continuing Medical Education Advances Physician Knowledge and Confidence

Purpose: This study examined whether online CME could improve the knowledge and confidence of cardiologists regarding the use of echocardiography for HCM diagnosis and management. Methods: The CME intervention comprised of a series of 6 online interviews between 1 moderator and 2 expert faculty. Educational effect was assessed using a repeated-pair design with pre-/post-assessment. 3 multiple choice questions assessed knowledge, and 1, rated on a Likert-type scale, assessed confidence. A paired samples t-test was conducted on overall average number of correct responses and for confidence rating, and a McNemar’s test was conducted at the question level (significance level, P &lt; .05). Data were collected August 8-September 8, 2023. Results: 165 cardiologists answered all assessment questions during the study period. Analysis of pre- vs. post-intervention responses demonstrated a significant improvement in overall knowledge; average correct responses increased from 48% pre-assessment to 74% post-assessment ( P &lt;.001). Specific areas of improvement include: Knowledge of the quantification of LVOT gradients, MR, and LVEF in the echocardiographic workup of HCM: 21% improved and 62% reinforced; the correct response increased (P&lt;.001) from 65% (pre) to 84% (post). Knowledge of the utility of echocardiography for follow-up and monitoring response to HCM treatment: 48% improved and 35% reinforced; the correct response increase (P&lt;.001) from 39% (pre) to 70% (post). Post-education, 48% of cardiologists had a measurable increase in their ability to diagnose HCM using echocardiographic parameters, resulting in 43% who were mostly or very confident after education (24% pre vs 43% post; P&lt;.001). Conclusion: This study demonstrated the success of online CME at improving the knowledge and confidence of cardiologists related to the use of echocardiography to identify and manage HCM.

Knowledge and awareness of emergency department residents and physicians regarding the management of dentofacial traumatic injuries: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMajority of patients with Dento-Facial Traumatic Injuries (DFTI) seek initial care at an Emergency Department (ED). The timely management of DFTI is of utmost importance in determining long-term prognosis of the tooth and the patient’s overall quality of life. Thus, knowledge and awareness of ED residents & physicians regarding the management of DFTI is crucial for better patient outcomes. Numerous studies have investigated the knowledge of ED specialists regarding initial management of dental trauma, however, scientific evidence in this domain is scarce in our region.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of ED residents and physicians regarding diagnosis and management of DFTI using a web-based survey on REDCap.MethodsAn observational cross-sectional study was conducted among the ED residents and physicians of private and public hospitals in Karachi, Pakistan. Data was collected through a web-based questionnaire, sent via email to the participants. The survey comprised of questions assessing their knowledge regarding the diagnosis and management of various dental and maxillofacial injuries. Responses from the participants were graded as low, moderate or high knowledge levels according to a pre-determined criteria. Pearson’s chi-square test was applied to determine the association between knowledge scores.ResultsThe total response rate was 47.6%. Out of 116 participants, 49 (42%) responses were received from physicians and 67 (58%) from residents. The overall knowledge level of participants was low (46.6%) and there was no significant difference in the knowledge level between residents and physicians (p = 0.157). Participants who had received formal training in dental trauma (p = 0.038) and those with more years of clinical experience (p = 0.004) had higher knowledge scores, that were statistically significant.ConclusionsThe knowledge and awareness of ED residents and physicians in dental trauma management was generally low. Specialized training courses are required to provide timely and adequate management of traumatic dental injuries in order to improve patient-related outcomes.

“Neither Side Really Knows… What an Abortion Is Like”: A Qualitative Analysis of Medical Students’ Experiences With Second-Trimester Procedural Abortions

ObjectivesMedical students value abortion education; however, there has been little study regarding participation in second-trimester procedures, which are less common yet receive significant societal attention. We aimed to explore medical students’ perceptions of participation in second-trimester procedural abortions to optimize this educational experience. Study DesignWe conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews with third- and fourth-year medical students who voluntarily participated in second-trimester dilation and evacuation cases. We coded interviews inductively and performed thematic content analysis until thematic saturation was reached. ParticipantsWe interviewed 25 medical students, including 16 third-year and nine fourth-year students. Most participants were female (64%) and white (58%) and had no prior abortion care experience (80%). ResultsFour major themes emerged: 1) students felt unprepared for second-trimester procedural abortions and were unable to find adequate educational resources for preparation; 2) students experienced complex emotional reactions to the procedures, often finding the experience more challenging than expected; 3) students observed implicit expectations and biases in the learning environment; and 4) students highly valued their involvement in abortion procedures, noting that participation was important for their future practice and allowed acquisition of essential clinical skills. ConclusionsMedical students value the educational opportunity to participate in second-trimester procedural abortions; however, most feel unprepared for the technical and emotional aspects, despite utilizing available educational resources. To maximize educational experience and psychological safety, educators should develop specialized training resources. This could strengthen physician knowledge and comfort with abortion care in the future, ultimately improving patient care.

Identification and Validation of an Instrument to Measure Physicians‘and Nurses' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Antibiotic Resistance and Antimicrobial Stewardship

Background: In Italy, the presence of a suitable instrument to measure the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of intensive care physicians and nurses with respect to antibiotic resistance and antimicrobial stewardship could not be identified Objectives: To validate the Italian version of the Ashiru-Oredope tool used by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) in 2019 to investigate intensive care nurses' and physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic resistance. Methods: Content validity was assessed using the Item-Content Validity Index (I-CVI), Scale Level-Content Validity Index/Universal Agreement (S-CVI/UA) score, Scale Level-Content Validity Index/Average (S-CVI/Ave) score, and Average Content Validity Ratio (CVR). Multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) was then carried out together with cluster analysis (CA) to check the correspondence of the items with the eight subdivision domains of the scale. Results: The final version consisted of 55/60 deemed relevant items, with Item-Content Validity Index (I-CVI) scores ranging from 0,625 to 1. The Scale Level-Content Validity Index/Universal Agreement (S-CVI/UA) score was 0.43; the Scale Level-Content Validity Index/Average (S-CVI/Ave) 0.90. The mean CVR of the scale was 0.43. The inter-rater reliability (Cohen's K) was between good and excellent. The combination of MCA and CA confirmed the correspondence of the items with the domains. Conclusion: The Italian version is a reliable and valid instrument for investigating antibiotic resistance and antimicrobial stewardship among Italian intensive care nurses and physicians.

Knowledge and practice of primary care physicians towards management of dyslipidemia in individuals with diabetes in Khartoum and Karray localities: a cross-sectional online survey

Knowledge and practice of primary care physicians towards management of dyslipidemia in individuals with diabetes in Khartoum and Karray localities: a cross-sectional online survey

Assessment of appropriate utilization of out-of-office diagnostic tools for the diagnosis of hypertension

ABSTRACT Background: Out-of-office blood pressure (BP) measurement devices, such as ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) and home BP monitoring (HBPM), enhance the accuracy and reliability of BP readings, detecting white-coat and masked hypertension. The American Heart Association (AHA) advises confirming hypertension diagnoses with ABPM to prevent overdiagnosis, emphasizing the importance of precise out-of-office diagnostic tools. This study aimed to 1) explore the prevalence of ABPM and HBPM use prior to hypertension diagnosis; 2) assess the adherence to AHA recommendations regarding ABPM utilization; and 3) investigate the association between patient characteristics and out-of-office BP monitoring practices. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study analyzed a random sample of adult patients newly diagnosed with essential hypertension at a tertiary hospital primary care center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between 2016 and 2022. Results: This study evaluated the use of ABPM and HBPM in a sample of 268 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients, with a mean age of 49.17 ± 12.69 years. Although ABPM orders were placed for 57.8% of patients, only 48.5% completed the procedure. Notably, 42.2% of hypertension diagnoses were solely based on ABPM, while 7.1% and 1.1% utilized HBPM alone or in combination with ABPM, respectively. This analysis revealed a lower utilization of ABPM among older adults, individuals with diabetes or chronic kidney disease, and married patients (P &lt; 0.05). However, this association with marital status, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease was no longer statistically significant in a fully adjusted model (P &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Out-of-office BP monitoring, particularly ABPM, was underutilized in newly diagnosed hypertensive patients, especially in older age groups and patients with specific comorbidities, who may benefit the most from this method. These results underscore the need for increasing physician knowledge and compliance with the existing guidelines.

Physicians’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices on the Diagnosis and Management of Osteoporosis in a Tertiary Hospital in Manila

Osteoporosis is a major public health concern leading to significant morbidity and mortality, especially in the elderly population. However, this disease is underdiagnosed and, as a result, undertreated. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) of physicians in the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis, which would help identify key areas of improvement in the care of patients with this disease. One hundred and nine physicians answered an online questionnaire looking at their KAP on the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis, and their answers were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation and the Chi-square test. More than half of the participants obtained satisfactory scores on knowledge, and majority had neutral to positive attitude regarding osteoporosis. A statistically significant correlation was seen between having low knowledge and negative attitudes on osteoporosis screening and management.

Duties, tasks, knowledge and skills of an obesity medicine physician: A practice analysis

BackgroundGiven the evolving nature of obesity medicine, periodic evaluation of its clinical practice is needed to ensure that certification requirements address real-world experience. Practice analysis is a systematic approach to define a field's body of knowledge, and its results can inform the content outline and examination blueprint for a certification examination. This study describes the 2023 practice analysis conducted by the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM). MethodsInitially, 14 obesity medicine physicians participated in a practice analysis panel, resulting in 3 duties and 30 tasks required for competent practice of obesity medicine physicians. Each task included steps, knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform the task. ABOM then recruited 645 certified obesity medicine physicians from its database to participate in a validation survey to rate the frequency [scale: never (0) to very frequently (5)] and importance [scale: not important (0) to very important (3)] of each task. Survey participants could also provide open-ended comments. ResultsAmong validation survey participants (n = 645), the most common primary medical specialties reported were internal medicine (46.0 %), family medicine (33.8 %), and pediatrics (11.2 %). Years practicing obesity medicine varied with 45.3 % reporting 1–4 years, 26.0 % 5–9 years, and 28.7 % ≥ 10 years in practice. Most tasks were performed frequently (mean score ≥4.0) and rated as important (mean score ≥2.0). All tasks were retained based on the frequency and importance ratings. Survey results informed the weighting in the examination blueprint. ConclusionThere was consensus among practicing ABOM-certified physicians who participated in the validation survey in the tasks required for competent obesity medicine practice. Our practice analysis approach was a structured process that engaged obesity medicine physicians and captured the breadth and depth of knowledge required for obesity medicine. The new content outline and examination blueprint developed will be implemented with the 2025 ABOM certification exam administration.

From Request To Result: The Clinical Significance of EEG in a Tertiary Hospital in Turkey

Objective: This study aimed to assess the clinical and demographic profiles of patients undergoing electroencephalography (EEG) over one year, evaluate EEG's impact on patient management, and ascertain the appropriateness of EEG requests. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted in the neurophysiology department at XXX University Faculty of Medicine over 12 months from October 2022 to October 2023. The study included the EEG request to the neurophysiology department; pediatrics and the cases that had artifacts or technical issues were excluded. Age, gender, imaging characteristics, EEG findings, and the reasons for EEG requests were recorded. The contribution of EEG to patient management was analyzed. Results: The study included 1217 patients with a mean age of 34.4±16.5 years, ranging from 18 to 90 years. Of these, 656 were female and 561 male. A history of epilepsy was reported in 821 patients. Neurology outpatient clinics, inpatient wards, and intensive care units requested the majority of EEGs. Epilepsy, presyncope/syncope, and psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) were the top reasons for EEG requests. Among the newly diagnosed epilepsy patients, 13 showed abnormal EEG results. The study identified MRI abnormalities in 202 patients, with a 27% concordance between EEG and MRI findings. EEG significantly influenced patient management in 577 cases (46.5%), demonstrating its crucial role in clinical decision-making. Conclusion: EEG's diagnostic value, particularly in epilepsy and complex neurological conditions, remains unique. Advocating suiting EEG requests and increasing physician knowledge of seizures can optimize patient care and resource use.