Review of family physician applications and referral status of patients with skin problems who applied to dermatology clinic: a survey study

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the family physician applications, diagnosis and referral status of patients who admitted to dermatology clinic. Materials and Methods: Voluntary patients who were applied to dermatology clinic were included in the study. The 14-item questionnaire was administered by a dermatologist through face-to-face interview method after examination. Results: A total of 1009 patients completed the survey. Of these, 69.67% (n=703) were female and 30.33% (n=306) were male. The mean age of the study participants was 42.37±18.16 years. Most of the patients have applied with the same complaints to health caregivers (n=500, 49.55%) or family physicians (n=172, 17.04%) before dermatology clinic visit. Female participants more likely knew their family physicians compared to males (p=0.03). One hundred and thirty (%12.85) patients were treated previously by the family physician for the same complaint. Twenty-six of them referred to a dermatologist. Discussion: Patients receive less service from family physicians related to skin diseases. Most patients applied directly secondary and tertiary health care centers for skin problems.