PB0583 - Assessment of knowledge and practice and associated factors towards hemophilia care among health care providers for pediatric hemophilia patients in southern Philippines

Background: There are large gaps in hemophilia treatment standards around the world. Poor disease understanding and gaps in expertise regarding hemophilia care have been identified at all levels in Asia Pacific. In the Philippines, disparities in care exist, resulting in sub-optimal outcomes for patients. Continued education for involved healthcare professionals (HCPs) is crucial for improved delivery.

Aims: To assess the level of knowledge and practice of HCPs towards hemophilia care, discover the associated factors, and identify the barriers that limit pediatric hemophilia patients from receiving hemophilia care.

Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to carry out the study on the 508 respondents using a systematic random sampling method at the 13 tertiary hospitals that offer hemophilia care to pediatric hemophilia patients in the Southern Philippines. The data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using Excel and SPSS version 19.0 software.

Results: A response rate of 500 (98.4%) was registered. Among the respondents, 287 (57.4%) had good knowledge, and 259 (58.1%) had a favorable attitude towards hemophilia care. In contrast, the level of practice showed that 384 (76.8%) of HCPs had poor practice towards hemophilia care. Results showed that 94% to 99% of HCPs believed the inadequate research evidence base to guide and measure the quality of life and the lack of staff training in hemophilia care were the major barriers to providing hemophilia care by hospitals to pediatric hemophilia patients. Additionally, 100% of HCPs affirmed that ignorance and lack of awareness about the existing program and resources for hemophilia care were the major factors that limit pediatric hemophilia patients from receiving hemophilia care in the Southern Philippines.

Conclusion(s): HCPs had poor training and knowledge of practice, but their attitude towards hemophilia care was favorable. Recommendations need to be incorporated into the Department of Health through Continuing Professional Development to promote regular training for hemophilia care.