Introduction: Understanding clinical practice gaps in the assessment and treatment of severe hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes can inform development of tools to improve physician practices. Methods: A survey instrument of 25 multiple choice, knowledge- and case-based questions allowed participants to assess their knowledge, attitudes, and confidence with regard to severe hypoglycemia. The survey was available online to physicians across the globe without monetary compensation or charge. Respondent confidentiality was maintained and responses were de-identified and aggregated prior to analyses. Initial data collection occurred from May 4, 2021, to July 12, 2021. Results: In total, 64 diabetologists/endocrinologists (D/Es) and 187 primary care physicians (PCPs) completed the full assessment within the data collection period.
When asked how many of their patients with diabetes have a prescription for glucagon, 88% of D/Es estimated <50% (and 69% estimated <20%) , 93% of PCPs estimated <50% (and 87% estimated <20%) . Conclusion: This educational research on assessment of physicians’ clinical practices yielded important insights into clinical gaps related to assessment and treatment of severe hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes. Further studies are planned to assess the effect of medical education on decreasing these clinical practice gaps.
A.Larkin: None. A.Le: None. J.Schrand: None.
Developed through independent educational grant from Xeris Pharmaceuticals
