The Spirometry and The Peak-flow Meter Usage Status of Turkish Family Physicians: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Pulmonary function tests are a necessary and applicable method in the practice of family medicine. Our aim in this study was to determine the utilization rates of spirometry or peak-flow meter devices among family physicians who work in Turkey and the factors that influence this usage. METHODS: This descriptive study included physicians working in the family medicine system in Turkey. Surveys were sent to physicians via e-mail. When a sufficient number of responses(n=380) were obtained in two months (May 2018-July 2018), the study was terminated. RESULTS: Among the responding physicians, 81.50% (n=310) had a peak-flow meter and 1.50% (n=59) had a spirometer, while11% (n=42) of the physicians had neither of these devices. On the other hand, 66.30% (n=252) of the physicians stated that they did not use the spirometer or peak-flow meter, 6.60% (n=25) used the peak-flow meter, and 3.70%(n=14) used the spirometer. When asked about the reasons for not using the existing devices, the most common reason was that they thought that the tests were not effective in family medicine and the second most common reason was not knowing how to use them. It was found that, 79.70% (n = 303) of physicians requested a course on spirometry and peak-flow meter. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: It was determined that the usage rates of peak-flow meter or spirometry devices, which are required in family medicine, are very low. In order to provide better service in primary care, more training is needed, both in medical faculties and after graduation.

Keywords

• spirometry
• peak-flow meter
• family physicians
• pulmonary disease