[Knowledge of phytopharmaceuticals among physicians from Morelos, Mexico]

To analyze the proportion of primary care physicians from the Health System in the State of Morelos with knowledge about phytopharmaceuticals, and to explore some factors related to this knowledge.

Through a descriptive, transversal and prospective study, physicians who work in the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, in the Secretaría de Salud in the State of Morelos, and in private practice, an "adequate knowledge" was conveyed when 70% or more answers were correct and "deficient knowledge," when this proportion was lower than 70%. A bivariated analysis was used in order to determine association and statistical differences.

A total of 264 physicians were included. The majority (90.2%) fell in the group of "deficient knowledge," and only 9.8% fell into the "adequate knowledge" group. An association was found between the possession of adequate knowledge and private physicians (PR = 4.66, CI = 95%), as well as deficient knowledge and working in a morning shift (PR = 2.92, CI = 95%).

As the results demonstrate, knowledge about phytopharmaceuticals among primary care physicians is deficient, regardless of the institution where they work.