Topical corticosteroids knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians

Authors

• Sarah F. Alsukait, From the Dermatology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Najd A. Alshamlan, From the Dermatology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Zeina Z. Alhalees, From the Dermatology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Sami N. Alsuwaidan, From the Dermatology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Abdulmajeed M. Alajlan, From the Dermatology Department, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians (PCPs) toward topical corticosteroids (TCs). Methods: A cross-sectional, 53-item questionnaire based study on TCs was conducted among PCPs in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between January and March 2015. A maximum score of 30 was calculated for the knowledge portion. Results: Out of 420 PCPs, 336 responded (80%). Most participants (89.6%) reported prescribing TCs. The mean knowledge score was 17.14 (SD=5.48). Only 39% PCPs correctly identified that there are 7 or 4 TCs potency groups (2 different classification systems). The MBBS/MD and diploma-certified physicians scored lower than board-qualified PCPs (p<0.05). Family medicine physicians scored higher than general practitioners (GPs) (p<0.05). Hospital-based PCPs scored better than private practice PCPs (p<0.05). Moreover, those who felt somewhat comfortable (32.5%) in treating dermatology patients were more knowledgeable (p<0.05). Lastly, 76.5% of physicians were interested in attending courses on dermatologic therapies. Conclusion: Knowledge of TCs among PCPs was inadequate. Targeted educational interventions delivered by dermatologists are recommended.

Article Type

Brief Report

First Page

662

Last Page

665

Recommended Citation

Alsukait, Sarah F.; Alshamlan, Najd A.; Alhalees, Zeina Z.; Alsuwaidan, Sami N.; and Alajlan, Abdulmajeed M. (2017) "Topical corticosteroids knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 38: Iss. 6, Article 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/smj.2017.6.17586