A Survey on Awareness Regarding Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG) Services in Malaysia-Are We Lacking?

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness among Malaysian health care providers (HPs) regarding pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) services. Additionally, the study evaluated HPs' knowledge of the HEADSS1 questionnaire (Home environment, Education and employment, Activities, Drugs, Sexuality, Suicide and depression) and their understanding of acute abdominal pain in female adolescents.

METHODS

A simple, 5-question online survey was conducted nationwide among registered Malaysian HPs, including doctors, nurses, assistant medical officers, and medical attendants.

RESULTS

A total of 529 HPs participated in the survey, with a median age of 35 years. Most had more than 5 years of working experience (74.7%) and worked in specialist hospitals (66.7%). Only 56.3% of HPs had heard of PAG services, and 43.7% were familiar with the HEADSS tool, with 60.2% using it in practice. Awareness was higher among doctors (61.4%), senior HPs (59.2%), and those in specialist hospitals (69.7%). Among doctors, both experience and workplace significantly impacted their awareness. Notably, 2% of doctors were unsure about which specialty was appropriate for referrals when managing acute abdomen in adolescents.

CONCLUSION

Overall, awareness of PAG services is low, with only 56.3% of HPs and 61.4% of doctors being familiar with the specialty. Management practices vary and lack standardization. We recommend implementing standardized training programs to improve the awareness and care for adolescent patients.