Haemochromatosis--a future focus for continuing education in general practice.
BACKGROUND
This study aimed to assess the educational needs of general practitioners with regards to the diagnosis and management of hereditary haemochromatosis.


METHODS
A questionnaire was mailed to all 216 GPs in a suburban division of general practice, with a response rate of 91 (42.1%). The survey covered GPs knowledge of the symptoms, signs, diagnosis, management and prognosis of haemochromatosis; attitudes toward management; beliefs regarding the prevalence of haemochromatosis and its relationship to other conditions; and management practices.


RESULTS
The relative prevalence, symptoms, signs, diagnostic requirements and prognostic factors associated with haemochromatosis were generally well recognised. The specifics of management is an area of educational need; in particular, venesection goals, dietary recommendations and the role of liver biopsy in diagnosis. Respondents were generally not comfortable managing haemochromatosis without specialist support, most commonly from a gastroenterologist. Of 80% of GPs who reported having patients with haemochromatosis, 41% primarily managed the condition.


CONCLUSIONS
The management of haemochromatosis in general practice could be improved by an educational campaign targeting GPs and the referral of uncomplicated patients back to their GPs from specialist services.
Young
Megan
M
Brisbane Southside Public Health Unit, Queensland. megan_young@health.qld.gov.au
Dick
Marie-Louise
ML
O'Rourke
Peter
P
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005194:Family Practice / Q000193:education* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006432:Hemochromatosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011793:Queensland