Assessing Professional Competence and Educational Needs in Sjögren’s Syndrome Diagnosis

Abstract

Purpose: Quantitatively evaluate the level of knowledge, confidence in diagnosing, and educational needs about Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) in a sample of healthcare providers in Jordan.
Methodology: Using a cross-sectional survey design and a structured questionnaire, we assessed knowledge of SS, recognition of signs and symptoms, and the knowledge of related diagnostic measures. Descriptive statistics were used to describe provider demographics and knowledge of SS. Knowledge was assessed by medical specialty with a Chi-square test, and factors predicting the desire for continuing medical education (CME) enrollment were evaluated with Logistic Regression.
Key Findings: A good portion of participants (63.4%) described themselves as "Moderately Knowledgeable" on the subject. Participants reported generally high recognition of classic symptoms like dry mouth (85.4%) and dry eyes (82.9%), but a considerable lack of awareness of key systemic manifestations, such as fatigue (53.7%) and skin rash (29.3%). The knowledge level was statistically significantly dependent upon medical specialization with lower overall scores reported from non-rheumatology specializations. It was particularly noteworthy that Logistic Regression identified lower knowledge level (Coefficient) and lower diagnostic confidence as significant statistical predictors of strong desire to have an educational workshop (85.4% desired education).
Conclusion: There is a considerable gap in recognizing systemic SS symptoms, especially in non-rheumatology health care professional, which may lead to delays in diagnosis. The high acceptability of training provides a prompt opportunity for the development, targeted implementation, and sustained provision of educational interventions that emphasize the identification of extra glandular symptoms and thorough assessment of diagnostic criteria to reduce delays in diagnosis and management of patient outcomes.