A mixed-method study examining family physicians’ perceptions regarding insulin pump therapy

Abstract

Background: Primary health care (PHC) physicians lack sufficient knowledge about insulin pump therapy. Objectives: to assess the level of knowledge and attitude of PHC physicians toward Insulin Pumps. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on PHC physicians working in primary healthcare settings at the main University Hospital and at the medical services centers at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Data about participants’ demographics, experience, specialty, workplace, and current position were collected. Their knowledge and attitude toward insulin pump therapy were assessed through online Google Forms. A qualitative part of the study was done by interviewing six physicians to report their opinion about insulin pumps therapy. Results: There was a lack of understanding of the function of an insulin pump and the elimination of the usage of finger sticks, however most of them were aware of the different types of insulin dosages and the appropriate age group for insulin pump therapy. The majority of the participants had a favorable attitude toward insulin pump therapy, as evidenced by the qualitative and quantitative findings of the study. Physicians who were 30 to 49 years old, consultants, and those with 10 to 19 years of experience all scored much better on knowledge. Knowledge deficits, a hazy system, financial concerns, the lack of pumps, and the lack of a skilled physician were all barriers to initiating patients on insulin pump therapy. Conclusions: There is a need for training programmes to increase PHC understanding and attitudes about insulin pump therapy. Keywords: knowledge, attitude, insulin, pumps, PHC, Jeddah