Assessment of the Knowledge of GPS Considering the Surgical Treatment of Obesity

Bariatric surgery is currently the only effective treatment option for morbidly obese patients. There has been observed a considerable disproportion between the number of procedures conducted in Poland and the number of patients requiring such treatment. There are no studies assessing bariatric knowledge among general practitioners who play crucial role in polish health care system.The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge of general practitioners regarding bariatric surgery.Material and methods. An anonymous questionnaire conducted among 282 general practitioners in 2010-2011 during local educational conferences. The questionnaire consisted of 10 questions relating to fundamental issues of bariatric surgery.Results. Only one twelfth (8.1%) of the general practitioners questioned knows the indications for bariatric surgery, can apply them, and has epidemiological awareness. 61.5% of general practitioners know the surgical procedures used for the treatment of obesity, whereas 58% of them show the knowledge of surgical technique in which they are performed. Only 23% of general practitioners were aware that bariatric surgery decreases cancer risk. 92% of the participants noticed a necessity of education regarding the surgical treatment of obesity.Conclusions. Bariatric knowledge among general practitioners is not adequate to scientific research results published during the last years. Most general practitioners who participated in our study are aware of that and are awaiting for educational programmes focused on this issue.