Evaluation of Knowledge Level and Approaches of Physicians Working in
Primary Health Care Institutions in Denizli Province on Diabetic
Neuropathy
Abstract
Background Diabetic neuropathy is a complication seen in diabetic
patients and involves motor, sensory or autonomic nerve fibres due to
minor vessel damage. Aims This study was planned to determine the
knowledge and awareness levels of physicians working in family health
centres about diabetic neuropathy and their approach to diabetic
neuropathy. Methodology Our study is a cross-sectional descriptive study
conducted in 111 family health centres in Denizli. The data were
obtained by face to face questionnaire method. Results Of the 219 people
participating in the study, 70.8% (n = 155) were male and 6.8% (n =
15) were family medicine specialists. 52.5% (n = 115) of the
participants allocated 6-10 minutes of examination time to diabetes
mellitus patients, 77.6% (n = 170) did not receive diabetic neuropathy
training after graduation, and 44.3% (n = 97) ) had not previously
diagnosed any patient with diabetic neuropathy. 74.4% of the
participants (n = 163) stated that they did not use any diabetic
neuropathy diagnosis and screening tests in their daily practice. 31%
(n = 68) of the participants stated that their level of knowledge on
diabetic neuropathy was either poor or very poor. 45.7% of the
participants (n = 100) thought diabetic neuropathy screening, diagnosis,
treatment and follow-up could be made in primary care. 89.5% (n = 196)
of the participants stated that they needed training on diabetic
neuropathy. Those who rely on their knowledge and clinical experience in
diagnosing, monitoring and treating diabetic neuropathy were 44.3% of
the participants (n = 97). Conclusion Although diabetic neuropathy is
one of the most critical complications of diabetes mellitus, there is a
severe insufficiency in postgraduate education in primary health care
services. Simple tests and methods for physicians working in primary
care should be included in the daily polyclinic routine.