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Infant gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease ( GORD ): A ustralian GP attitudes and practices
Author(s) -
Kirby Catherine N,
Segal Ahuva Y,
Hinds Rupert,
Jones Kay M,
Piterman Leon
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
journal of paediatrics and child health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.631
H-Index - 76
eISSN - 1440-1754
pISSN - 1034-4810
DOI - 10.1111/jpc.12983
Subject(s) - medicine , reflux , disease
Aim The aim of this study was to evaluate the attitudes and practices of A ustralian general practitioners ( GPs ) regarding infant gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease ( GORD ) diagnosis and management. Methods A national cross‐sectional survey, involving a random sample of currently practising A ustralian GPs ( n = 2319) was undertaken between J uly and S eptember 2011. GPs attitudes and management of infant GORD were surveyed via an online and paper‐based 41‐item questionnaire. Results In total, 400 responses were analysed (17.24% response rate). The majority of GPs employed empirical trials of acid‐suppression medication and/or lifestyle modifications to diagnose infant GORD . GPs frequently recommended dietary modification despite the belief that they were only moderately effective at best. In addition, GPs frequently prescribed acid‐suppression medication, despite concerns regarding their safety in the infant population. Other GP concerns included the lack of clinical guidelines and education for GPs about infant GORD , as well as the level of evidence available for the safety and efficacy of diagnostic tests and treatments. Conclusion Despite the important role A ustralian GPs play in the diagnosis and management of infant GORD , high‐level evidence‐based guidelines for GPs are lacking. Consequently, GPs engage in diagnostic and management practices despite their concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness.