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Identifying Barriers to Developing Expertise in Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Casey Schukow1, Clare Townsend2, Nicole Jess3
1Dr. Schukow is with the Department of Pathology at Corewell Health in Royal Oak, Michigan.
Experts and non-experts show significant differences in treating moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa (HS). Barriers to expertise and varied treatment approaches were identified, impacting patient care.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Inflammatory Disorders
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting intertriginous areas.
- HS significantly impairs patients' quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify treatment barriers for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) among dermatologists.
- To compare treatment expertise and interest between HS experts and non-experts.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous, voluntary survey was distributed to dermatologists via the HS Foundation listserv.
- Data was collected from June to September 2021, with 88 total responses.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in comfort and interest in treating moderate to severe HS were observed between experts and non-experts.
- Experts reported higher knowledge and experience with specific medical treatments like IV Ertapenem.
- Barriers to developing expertise, such as equipment access, were identified.
Conclusions:
- Statistically significant disparities exist in the approach to moderate to severe HS between expert and non-expert dermatologists.
- Barriers to expertise impact the consistent application of advanced therapies for HS.
- Addressing these barriers may improve HS management and patient outcomes.
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