Evaluating the Level of Knowledge of Family Doctors About Hypothyroidism and its Influencing Factors in 2021 in Shiraz

Hypothyroidism is a common, important endocrine disorder. In this study, we aimed to evaluate family physicians' knowledge about hypothyroidism. 

 Thi s an alytical cross-sectional study assessed the knowledge knowledge of hypothyroidismin 180 family physicians working in two Shiraz urban health centers in 2021. A researcher-made questionnaire containing four areas, including screening, diagnosis, treatment, and referral, was used. The total score of the questionnaire was 22. Initially, the validity and reliability of the questionnaire were confirmed in a pilot study. 

150 out of 180 participants completed the questionnaire. The average score was 15.7±2 of the total 22 scores. The mean scores on screening, diagnosis, treatment, and referral subscales were 0.8±3.2, 0.8±2.3, 1.4±6.6, and 0.6±3.5, respe ctively. Less than 50% of the doctors answered five out of 22 questions correctly. The doctor's age had a significant negative relationship with the questionnaire score. 

Although family physicians' knowledge was acceptable in screening, diagnosis, and referral areas, their knowledge of treatment was not sufficient. Using evidence-based national clinical guidelines and updating them at specific intervals, focusing on the performance of family physicians, can be an effective way to improve the knowledge and performance of these doctors. Planning for targeted retraining is suggested as another way to improve performance.