Assessment of Family Physicians' Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Atrial Fibrillation and Oral Anticoagulants in Türkiye: What Do the Survey Results Reveal?

Abstract

Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia associated with a five-fold increased risk of stroke. Family physicians (FPs) serve as the primary contact point for patients seeking healthcare. While many surveys have assessed FPs' knowledge on AF across various countries, no such study has been conducted in Türkiye. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge and approach to AF of FPs in Türkiye.

Methods: An online survey consisting of 38 multiple-choice questions was administered to 326 consenting physicians. The survey addressed demographic characteristics, AF diagnosis, risk factors, treatment approaches, counseling, consultation options, and levels of anxiety related to AF. Descriptive characteristics of the responses were analyzed.

Results: A total of 235 (72.1%) FPs demonstrated moderate or lower level of knowledge. A significant weak negative correlation was found between age and total knowledge score (rho = 0.123, P < 0.026), and a significant difference was identified between working status and knowledge score (P < 0.001). Only 7.1% of FPs reported having access to cardiologists when they needed consultation. Additionally, 81.9% tended to refer patients to a cardiologist for periprocedural management, and 85.9% for cases of minor bleeding. Of the respondents, 86.5% expressed that training on AF and oral anticoagulants (OACs) is absolutely necessary.

Conclusion: Major gaps in FPs' knowledge and skills regarding AF and anticoagulants were identified. Knowledge levels among FPs can be improved through training sessions, web-based applications, and conferences. FPs can be encouraged and supported to play an active role in AF management, which may enhance patient outcomes, reduce costs for the healthcare system, and share the workload of cardiologists.