Pediatrician Beliefs about Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis May Result in Referral Delays: A Spanish National Survey

J Pediatr. 2019 Jun:209:236-239.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.12.038. Epub 2019 Jan 22.

Abstract

We explored, through a national survey, pediatrician beliefs and misconceptions that could interfere with early referral of patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. A total of 831 pediatricians participated. Approximately one-half of the respondents underestimated the incidence of the disease and thought that pain was the leading symptom of oligoarticular forms.

Keywords: beliefs; biological therapy; health survey; juvenile idiopathic arthritis; methotrexate; pediatrics; referral.

MeSH terms

  • Arthritis, Juvenile* / therapy
  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Child
  • Culture
  • Female
  • Health Care Surveys
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pediatrics*
  • Referral and Consultation / statistics & numerical data*
  • Spain
  • Time-to-Treatment*