Knowledge and attitudes of physicians working in family health centers in Edirne province regarding the diagnosis and treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a dynamic disorder in which the anatomical relationship between the femoral head and the acetabulum is disrupted due to various factors, despite normal prenatal development of the hip joint. If not diagnosed early, developmental dysplasia of the hip can lead to severe health complications. This study aims to assess the knowledge levels and attitudes of physicians working in family health centers in Edirne regarding developmental dysplasia of the hip. The study was conducted between June 1, 2024, and August 31, 2024, with 106 family physicians who agreed to participate from among 135 working in primary healthcare services. A questionnaire developed by the researchers was used to collect data on participants' sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and attitudes. The mean general knowledge score of the participants was 19.93 (±3.78), the screening knowledge score was 9.77 (±2.47), the treatment knowledge score was 19.36 (±3.22), and the total knowledge score was 49.07 (±7.5). No statistically significant relationship was found between knowledge level and factors such as years of experience in family medicine, employment status, or follow-up of children with developmental dysplasia of the hip. However, physicians who screened a higher number of infants (p=0.013), participated in in-service training programs provided by the Ministry of Health (p=0.042), used ministry guidelines as a reference (p=0.002), considered their knowledge sufficient (p=0.001), and read scientific literature on the topic (p<0.001) had significantly higher knowledge levels. The findings indicate that although family physicians have an adequate level of knowledge about developmental dysplasia of the hip, access to up-to-date scientific data should be improved. In this regard, diversifying educational programs, enhancing the accessibility of guideline documents, and promoting evidence-based practices are recommended. Family physicians play a crucial role in the early diagnosis and management of developmental dysplasia of the hip. Therefore, improving screening and follow-up procedures can facilitate early detection and treatment, ultimately preventing long-term complications associated with the disease.