Open AccessA Need for Targeted Otolaryngology Education among Primary Care Providers
Author(s) -
Meyer Tanya Kim,
Sardesai Maya G.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
otolaryngology–head and neck surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.232
H-Index - 121
eISSN - 1097-6817
pISSN - 0194-5998
DOI - 10.1177/0194599811415823a34
Subject(s) - medicine , otorhinolaryngology , otology , rhinology , family medicine , sore throat , health care , laryngology , primary care , continuing medical education , center of excellence , continuing education , medical education , general surgery , surgery , political science , law , economics , economic growth
Objective According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 3 of the top 10 most common reasons for physician visits pertain to otolaryngology, including cough, sore throat, and ear ache. We explored the gaps in otolaryngologic knowledge among a group of primary care providers attending an educational event. Method A brief web‐based anonymous survey regarding knowledge of basic otolaryngologic conditions was administered to primary care providers, both physicians and allied health practitioners. Results Thirty‐seven surveys were collected from 50 participants, of which 59% were allied health and 41% were physicians. Participants practiced in adult, pediatric, and family medicine. Gaps in knowledge were identified across several otolaryngologic subjects, including laryngology, rhinology, head and neck oncology, otology, sleep surgery, and pediatric otolaryngology. Conclusion There appear to be deficiencies in otolaryngologic knowledge among the primary care specialties. Increased exposure to otolaryngology rotations and lectures during training may increase understanding of common otolaryngologic diseases among these providers. It may also be beneficial to develop targeted programs for continuing medical education for these providers.