Abstract
Introduction Primary care physicians are essential first points of contact for patients with hearing
loss. Thus, knowledge of hearing loss and related aspects is essential to ensure the
optimal management of individuals with suspected hearing loss.
Objective This study aimed to determine the knowledge of and attitudes toward hearing loss
among primary care physicians in the public health sector in Mauritius.
Methods In this cross-sectional descriptive cohort study, 320 primary care physicians completed
an online questionnaire adapted from previous questionnaires on knowledge of and attitudes
toward hearing loss. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and cross-sectional
analyses.
Results Primary care physicians showed limited knowledge of hearing loss in areas such as
early identification and intervention, professionals responsible for hearing assessments,
and hearing tests used for assessing hearing sensitivity. However, the responses also
showed positive attitudes toward hearing loss. Significant associations between knowledge
of and attitudes toward hearing loss were obtained regarding the type of physician,
length of practice, and department posted in. Ear, nose, and throat specialists, as
well as pediatricians, demonstrated significantly higher scores for both knowledge
of and positive attitudes toward hearing loss.
Conclusions The findings highlight a strong need for ongoing medical education to spread awareness
about hearing loss among primary care physicians in the public health sector of Mauritius.
Keywords
primary care physicians - public health sector - hearing loss - knowledge - attitudes
