Abstract

Introduction: In this study, we aimed to investigate whether erectile function is inquired by other physicians except urologists.

Materials and Methods: A brief questionnaire was given to 353 physicians including general practitioners or residents and specialist apart from urology. Physicians were asked if they inquire erectile function among male patients applying to them. Later, those physicians who reported that they had evaluated erectile function were asked to determine their way of investigation by giving five different alternatives. The physicians who reported not doing erectile function evaluation were asked why they do not inquire about erectile function by giving six different choices.

Results: Of 353 physicians, 32 (9.1%) (29 psychiatrist, 2 general practitioners, 1 neurologist) reported that they inquire erectile function among their patients. Rest of the physicians (90.9%) does not inquire about erectile function. Twenty physicians (62.5%) proceeded with urology consultation when erectile dysfunction (ED) was found, 10 (31.3%) proceeded with some laboratory investigation (total testosteron level), 7 (21.9%) started therapy (sildenafil), 9 (28.1%) gave some take home advice to manage ED, and 7 (21.9%) reported that the only purpose of inquiring erectile function is to complete medical records. Among 321 physicians who never inquire erectile function, 100 (31.1%) reported that they did not have enough time, 194 (60.4%) believed that inquiring ED was not their primary job, 20 (6.2%) said that they forgot it, 46 (14.3%) said the examination environment was not suitable, 10 (3.1%) believed that they did not have enough knowledge, and 1 (0.3%) reported that he was disturbed of the patients reaction.

Conclusion: Erectile function is not inquired in the departments out of urology except psychiatry.