Patient Knowledge and Perspective on Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Development of a Survey Instrument

Abstract

The survey instrument was found to be reliable, valid and usable. It provides descriptive data on patient knowledge, fears, and concerns surrounding irritable bowel syndrome. This easily administered questionnaire should provide novel information to improve patient care.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary care physicians about irritable bowel syndrome in Northern Saudi Arabia

“…[3–6] It is encouraging that the vast majority of physicians surveyed knew the clinical presentation of IBS Table 2.…”

“…[3–616] Unfortunately, we found that more than a third of the physicians (35.4%; 15 males, and 8 females) were not sure how to diagnose IBS and this could contribute to a lack of diagnostic confidence and may result in unnecessary investigations. It was surprising that when asked about investigations, nearly half of the physicians surveyed suggested a complete blood count and ESR with stool examination, colonoscopy, and abdominal radiologic imaging.…”

“…Our findings, regarding extensive investigations to diagnose IBS, support the results of several studies that estimated that the annual total (direct and indirect) cost of IBS is comparable with or greater than that of other common chronic conditions, including asthma, hypertension, and congestive heart failure. [16–10]…”

“…[3–5] The disorder is one of the most common conditions encountered by both primary health care (PHC) physicians and specialists, and accounts for approximately 12% of visits to PHC physicians and 28% of the referrals to gastroenterologists. [46] The condition is expensive, troublesome, and should not be underestimated because it is associated with a great economic burden owing to substantial direct health care costs and indirect costs. The patients with IBS have higher healthcare resource utilization than non-IBS patients in terms of more frequent physician visits, more tests, greater medication use, and increased rates of unnecessary surgery.…”

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What Do Patients Really Want?

“…Patients had the most educational interest in topics on: 1) foods to avoid (63.3%); 2) causes of IBS (62%); 3) coping strategies (59.4%); 4) medications (55.2%); 5) whether they would have to live with IBS for life; (51.6%); and 6) research studies (48.6%). Further, patients indicated that they would like their health care providers to refer them to another source for additional information (95.8%); to answer questions (95.9%); to listen (94.4%); to provide information about IBS studies and medications (94%); to provide support (88.6%); and hope (82.1%) [23,24]. In regards to desired sources for obtaining medical information, "my doctor" was on top of patients' lists, followed by "the internet," "a pharmacist," and "brochures" [12,25].…”