Infektološki glasnik, Vol. 43 No. 2, 2023.
Izvorni znanstveni članak
https://doi.org/10.37797/ig.43.2.1
Sexually transmitted diseases testing and counseling practices among primary care physicians in Croatia
Nikolina Sarač
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
*
Loris Močibob
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
Nikola Kudoić
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
Ivana Benković
; School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia
Matea Kozlović
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
Sanja Belak Škugor
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
Josip Begovac
; University Hospital for Infectious Diseases “Dr. Fran Mihaljević”, Zagreb, Croatia
* Dopisni autor.
Sažetak
Aim: To assess sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, counseling practices, and knowledge among general practitioners (GPs) in Croatia.
Methods: A cross-sectional, anonymous online survey was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022 among GPs. The 32-item questionnaire examined demographic characteristics, clinical practices, attitudes, and knowledge regarding STD testing, treatment, HIV prevention, and guidelines familiarity.
Results: A total of 230 GPs (81.3% female) participated. HIV testing was rarely recommended (median 0 in the previous 3 months), while STD testing was infrequent (median 3). Nearly half GPs reported barriers to STD counseling, most commonly insufficient time and discomfort while only 15.2% were familiar with STD guidelines. Knowledge gaps were observed, particularly in gonorrhea treatment (12.6% correct) and empiric treatment of urethritis (17.0% correct). Awareness of PEP (53.1%) exceeded that of PrEP (39.6%).
Conclusion: Croatian GPs demonstrate limited engagement and knowledge gaps in STD management, highlighting the need for targeted education and clearer clinical guidance.
Ključne riječi
sexually transmitted diseases; general practitioners; gonorrhea; chlamydia, syphilis
Hrčak ID:
350072
URI
Datum izdavanja:
10.7.2026.
Posjeta: 0 *