A Multidisciplinary Case‐Based Training to Improve Turkish Family Physicians Knowledge and Competence in Managing Child Abuse and Neglect Cases: A Quasi‐Experimental Study

OpenAlex English

ABSTRACT Family physicians are uniquely positioned to identify and manage child abuse and neglect (CAN) cases in primary care. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary, case‐based training programme designed to enhance family physicians' knowledge and perceived competence in recognizing and managing CAN cases. A quasi‐experimental study was conducted in Istanbul, Türkiye, between January and October 2023. A full‐day, face‐to‐face training with theoretical and case discussions was provided to volunteer family physicians. Participants completed ‘Diagnosis Scale of the Risks and Symptoms of Child Abuse and Neglect’ (DSRSCAN) pretraining, posttraining and 6 months later and the ‘Perceived Competence Scale in the Management of Child Abuse and Neglect Cases for Family Physicians’ (PCS‐RM‐CAN) pretraining and 6 months later. Data were analysed using SPSS 26, employing Mann–Whitney Test, Wilcoxon, Kruskal–Wallis, Friedman and Spearman tests. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Thirty‐eight family physicians (76% female; mean age: 33.1 ± 8 years) participated. The average DSRSCAN score increased from 4.07 ± 0.35 pretraining to 4.50 ± 0.36 posttraining and 4.40 ± 0.40 at 6 months ( p < 0.001). PCS‐RM‐CAN scores improved from 29.7 ± 8 pretraining to 42.7 ± 5 at 6 months ( p < 0.001). The programme significantly improved family physicians' CAN‐related knowledge and competence. Periodic training is recommended for skill retention and long‐term impact.