A survey on awareness regarding Paediatrics and adolescent gynaecology (PAG) services in Malaysia- Are we lacking?

Objectives: To assess the level of awareness among Malaysian healthcare providers (HP) regarding Paediatrics and Adolescent Gynaecology (PAG) services. Additionally, the study evaluates HP's 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 HP, including doctors, nurses, assistant medical officers (AMO) and medical attendants (MA).

Results: A total of 529 HP participated in the survey, with a median age of 35 years. Majority had more than 5 years working experience (74.7%), worked in specialist hospitals (66.7%). Only 56.3% of HP had heard of PAG services, while 43.7% were familiar with the HEADSS tool, with 60.2% using it in practice. Awareness was higher among doctors (61.4%), senior HP (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 for referrals when managing acute abdomen in adolescents.

Conclusion: Overall, awareness of PAG services is low, with only 56.3% of HP and 61.4% of doctors 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.