Mind the gap: primary care physicians and gynecologists’ knowledge about menopause and their attitudes to hormone therapy use in Jamaica

Abstract

Objectives: 

The study objective was to evaluate physicians’ knowledge, attitude, and practices toward menopause and hormone therapy.

Methods: 

This study was a cross-sectional study using a stratified sample of physicians across the four health regions in Jamaica, between September and October 2017. A total of 145 physicians (75% response rate) completed a questionnaire to assess knowledge and attitudes toward menopause and prescribing hormonal therapy. Univariate and bivariate analyses were used to describe and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and practices in participants.

Results: 

The majority of physicians (66%) self-reported a moderate level of knowledge of menopausal treatment options. Self-reported knowledge was associated with years in practice (P < 0.0001) and level of experience (P < 0.0001). Those who identified as having good and moderate knowledge were likely to discuss treatment options with patients (P < 0.005), while physicians with good knowledge were more likely to prescribe hormone therapy (P < 0.05). Correct responses regarding common menopause symptoms were noted in >60% physicians; however, there was a precipitous fall in correct responses regarding findings related to the Women's Health Initiative (<45%). More consultant grade physicians were confident and less confused about prescribing hormone therapy (P < 0.05) compared to junior grade physicians. When stratified by level of experience, knowledge level was the factor that discouraged physicians from seeing symptomatic menopausal patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: 

This study highlights the gaps in knowledge and practices and a need for carefully designed curricula to provide individualized, risk-mitigated training in menopause healthcare.

 

Video Summary:https://links.lww.com/MENO/A814.