Attitude of medical university students towards the need for knowledge about the organization of prevention and treatment of glaucoma.

Abstract

Objective: Aim: To investigate the need among future doctors of various specialties (medical university students) to study the fundamentals of the organization of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of glaucoma.

Patients and methods: Materials and Methods: A custom-designed questionnaire was used as the research tool. The study materials consisted of data obtained from a survey of senior students at three medical universities in Ukraine. Bibliographic, statistical, and analytical methods were employed in the study.

Results: Results: Overall, 80% of medical students believe that knowledge of the discipline "Ophthalmology" is necessary for future physicians of all specialties. 75% of respondents rated the scope and quality of ophthalmology knowledge received during the pre-graduation stage at 3-5 points on a 5-point scale. One-third of students rated their knowledge of the organization of ophthalmologic care and the prevention of eye diseases at 3 points. More than 80% of students highly valued the importance of future physicians of all specialties being knowledgeable about modern approaches to glaucoma prevention and the factors influencing its development. However, while there is general understanding among future physicians about the need to know the current algorithm of actions when glaucoma or pseudoexfoliation syndrome is suspected, knowledge of modern treatment approaches for glaucoma patients is not deemed necessary by all. 75% of students plan to apply their knowledge of glaucoma prevention in their future practice, but they do not intend to carry out preventive activities aimed at preventing the development of glaucoma.

Conclusion: Conclusions: Overall, 70-80% of the surveyed medical students recognize the importance of ophthalmology knowledge. However, their assessment of the volume and quality of their own knowledge was not sufficiently high. Future physicians understand the importance of being informed about risk factors for glaucoma and its prevention. Evaluations of the need for in-depth knowledge of modern treatment approaches for glaucoma patients or the organization of glaucoma prevention were more reserved. Sixth-year students and medical interns feel uncertain about their theoretical and practical knowledge of ophthal-mology. Educators teaching the "Ophthalmology" discipline should clearly demonstrate the relevance and value of ophthalmological knowledge for various medical specialties, especially for family physicians.