Mapping of Endocrinology Training, Certification, and Service Provision in Arab Countries: An Exploratory Survey

Abstract Background Modern health care and education in Arab countries vary widely. Developing a common understanding of the region's endocrine training, certification, and service models is timely. Methods We surveyed 63 physicians from 15 Arab countries using an online questionnaire of four domains. They were: (1) informed consent and professional profile; (2) the training, career development, and recognition as an endocrinologist; (3) provision of endocrine services; and (4) the issue of self-proclaimed and recognition of “diabetologists.” Results Most respondents were senior physicians (82.5%) and adult endocrinologists (53/63). Most respondents (86.7%) confirmed that endocrinology is recognized as a specialty, but only 10.0% stated that it is recognized in major teaching hospitals; 70% of respondents confirmed that a full training program for diabetes and endocrinology exists in their settings; 53.7% stated that postgraduate training in endocrinology requires 2 years with examinations. Half were satisfied, and 25.9% suggested that changes were needed. Regarding endocrine services, 94.8% of respondents reported that the endocrinology is a main service. Diabetes services are reportedly provided mostly by endocrinologists (64.3%). However, nonendocrinologists are involved in diabetes care to a lesser extent. Some specialist services such as lipid clinics, andrology, and reproductive endocrinology are mainly part of endocrinology by 77.2% of respondents and under other specialties by 22.8%. Job opportunities exist primarily in private practice (43.1%) and state hospitals (39.7%). Finally, respondents disagreed with nonendocrinologists' title of “consultant diabetologist” as it is harmful (37.3%) or can be confusing (32.2%) and 22.0% were neutral. Over half (56.7%) stated that academic training courses are welcome to enhance knowledge about diabetes care by primary care doctors but should not be the basis of granting a specialist status. Conclusions This first look at the mapping of training, certification, and recognition of endocrinologists in Arab countries revealed a wide variation of training systems and care provision. There is a pressing need to address these discrepancies.