Knowledge levels, attitudes and behaviors of family physicians and family medicine residents practicing in Edirne province regarding malpractice

This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to medical malpractice among family physicians and family medicine residents practicing in Edirne province. The study collected data from 195 volunteer family physicians using the face-to-face interview method. Data were collected using a questionnaire consisting of 35 questions. This questionnaire was designed to determine the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants as well as to measure their level of knowledge about malpractice. 51.7% of the participants were male and 48.2% were female, with a mean age of 28 years. As a result of the analyses, malpractice knowledge scores were found to be statistically significantly higher among physicians aged 30 years and older, males, and physicians with 5 or more years of experience. The average age of family medicine residents is lower, and their level of knowledge about malpractice was found to be lower compared to general practitioners. The mean knowledge score of the participants was 7.77 (±2.23) and the median was 8 (range 2-14). The knowledge scores of physicians who believed they were familiar with the job description were higher than those who believed they were not familiar. In addition, physicians who currently have malpractice insurance have significantly higher knowledge scores than physicians who previously had malpractice insurance but do not currently have malpractice insurance. On the other hand, no significant relationship was found between the effect of malpractice lawsuits on physician performance and litigation risk and insurance status. A significant proportion of participants did not have sufficient knowledge of malpractice laws. While medical education and the media were identified as the most important sources of information, it was observed that scientific sources were underutilized. In conclusion, a more comprehensive approach to medical education is needed to overcome the lack of knowledge and legal awareness about malpractice. It is important to raise physicians' awareness of insurance coverage and how it works. Additionally, psychosocial support mechanisms should be strengthened to help physicians cope with the psychological burden of malpractice. Keywords: malpractice, knowledge, Family Practice