Abstract

PREVENTION OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN WOMEN: ROLE OF THE OBSTETRICIAN-GYNECOLOGIST

Hanaa Hadi Kareem* and Sinan Ahmed Saeed

Abstract

A qualitative study was conducted to understand the current and potential role of the community obstetrician gynecologist in risk factor screening and prevention of cardiovascular disease. A total of four focus group discussions were conducted among 50 residents and practicing physicians in Iraq. Five main thematic areas were identified including the scope of practice, professional knowledge and skills in non-reproductive care, the potential for liability, logistical and structural barriers, medical practice community, and support for collaborative care. There were no differences between residents and those in practice within and between cities. Comprehensive care was most often defined as excluding chronic medical care issues and most likely as focusing on screening and referring women.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, obstetrician-gynecologist.