Objective: The aim of the study was to analyze practices of Moldovan neurologists regarding the management of Parkinson’s disease patients.

Background: Parkinson’s disease management depends a lot on the doctor’s approach and the socio-familial environment.

Method: An observational KAP (knowledge, attitudes and practices) study was conducted, where neurologists completed a questionnaire of 34 questions, for 15 minutes. The results were statistically analyzed.

Results: Study sample consisted of 45 neurologists; 68.9% respondents were women, and 84.4% – from urban areas. Regarding the initiation of levodopa treatment, 30.4% of the neurologists believe that it should be postponed as much as possible, even if the patient’s functionality is affected, because levodopa accelerates the disease evolution (2.2%), creates addiction (17.8%) or can be harmful (11.1%), which shows negative approach practices. Only 15.6% of respondents establish the diagnosis on their own, 15.6% – initiates and continues the treatment on their own, 71.1% of respondents establish a presumptive diagnosis and refer the patient to a tertiary institution for confirmation. In the treatment process of the Parkinson’s disease patient, 48.9% initiate treatment and direct the patient to a tertiary institution, then they monitor the treatment indicated by the tertiary institution.

Conclusion: According to this study, Moldovan neurologists, approach both negative and positive practices regarding the management of Parkinson’s disease patients. Knowledge of the patient’s needs, multidisciplinary approach and targeting to a tertiary institution could improve the management of Parkinson’s disease patients in the Republic of Moldova, and, respectively, their quality of life.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/practices-of-neurologists-in-the-management-of-parkinsons-disease-patients-in-the-republic-of-moldova/