Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Revista Portuguesa de Medicina Geral e Familiar, cilt.41, ss.34-35, 2025 (Hakemli Dergi)
THE ROLE OF FAMILY PHYSICIANS IN THE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS OF ADOLESCENT IDIOPATHIC SCOLIOSIS PATIENTS
Yıldız Tükel Filiz1 , Gökdemir Özden 2, Özçakar Nilgün 1
1) Family Medicine, Dokuz Eylül University / Faculty of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
2) Family Medicine, WONCA Working Party on Planetary Health / IUE Faculty of
Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
Aim of the study: Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) is a spinal deformity affecting individuals aged 8-18, defined by curvature of 10 degrees or more in the coronal plane. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent progression and improve quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the role of family physicians in diagnosing AIS and effectiveness of primary care. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 150 AIS patients aged 8-18 from Dokuz Eylül University Orthopedics Clinic. Data were collected via phone surveys using a sociodemographic form and the Primary Care Assessment Survey (PCAS).Results: Of the participants, 69.3% were female (n=104) and 30.7% male (n=46), with an average age of 18.09±4.34. Early-onset scoliosis was diagnosed in 37.3% (n=56), while 62.7% (n=94) had late-onset scoliosis. Most diagnoses (68%, n=102) were made by orthopedic specialists, with only 10.7% (n=16) by family physicians. Only 14.7% (n=22) of patients consulting family physicians received scoliosis examinations, and an equal number were referred for further evaluation. Significant differences were found in PCAS subdimensions of holistic information, physical care, and personal approach (p<0.05). Discussion: Family physicians play a limited role in AIS diagnosis. Enhancing early detection, regular screenings in primary care can reduce progression risks. Education, awareness programs are needed to improve family physicians’ involvement in scoliosis diagnosis and treatment. Conclusion: Family physicians have a limited but important role in AIS diagnosis. Strengthening screening and referral protocols in primary care can significantly prevent scoliosis progression. Health policy reforms are essential to improve primary care effectiveness in this area.