Continuing Medical Education in the Field of Psychiatric Disorders Affects General Practitioner`s Knowledge, in Dezful University of Medical Sciences, as a Newly Established University

Background: Continuing Medical Education (CME) of general practitioners (GPs) regarding most of the diseases, especially psychiatric disorders, is implementing worldwide to maintain and develop their knowledge, skills, and professional performance. We investigated the effects of CME on GPs knowledge in the field of psychiatric disorders in Dezful University of medical sciences (DUMS) as a Newly Established University. Methods: Among the 300 volunteers of GPs affiliated to DUMS in autumn 2013, 86 of them were randomly selected to attend in continuing psychiatric education schedule. A self-administered questionnaire was prepared by consultation of six psychiatrists and its validity and reliability was assessed. GPs knowledge before and after CME training session were evaluated by this questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using, inferential tests such as Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficient test and also, ANCOVA and paired t-test were used. Data were analyzed with using statistical software SPSS 18. Results: The results showed that there is a significant difference (P < 0.01) at the mean scores of GPs knowledge before and after training in the fields of psychiatry. Moreover, it was indicated that although subject`s knowledge is acceptable about psychiatry, but precise continuing education courses could improve their knowledge significantly (P< 0.01). Conclusions: CME significantly improves GPs knowledge in psychiatric disorders area especially in less developed regions and medical center with limited scientific resources. Therefore, implementing this type of trainings in regions which are potentially similar to our study area could be very useful.