Improving of the Detection of Primary Immunodeficiency Diseases through Implementation of Educational Programs

Background: Early detection of primary immunodeficiency diseases (PID) is vital for adequate prevention and management of PID infectious complications.

Objective of this study was to improve the primary immunodeficiency diagnostics through implementation of the model combining physician education and public awareness with the infrastructure to diagnose these diseases.

Methods: Three strategies combination has been followed from February 2017 in Ternopil region, Ukraine. The first was education of primary-care physicians (pediatricians, GP doctors) and other specialists (rheumatologists, otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, surgeons, etc.) in early PID symptoms and detection using workshops, trainings, and targeted publications. The second was organization of public events, media appearance to raise PID awareness. The third was undertaken immunological testing for patients with suspected PID.

Results: Workshops and trainings for primary care physicians on early PID detection were organized in 2017 in every regional district (15 districts were totally covered). Generally 540 physicians and nurses attended the lectures and worhshops, including pediatricians, general practitioners, etc. We also visited the outpatient departments, talking to doctors, patients and their parents about the PID warning signs.

The examination of the children at risk for PID was conducted during the visits. We developed examination cards of children with suspected PID. These children were referred to the regional children’s hospital for further examination.

We have translated into Ukrainian and published educational materials: warning signs, testing stages. We have also created some educational materials about PID which were disseminated among physicians.

By the beginning of 2017, there were 11 children with PID in our region, at the end of 2018 their number increased to 31. We also follow 12 patients with suspected PID that need monitoring and examinations to finalize the diagnosis.

Conclusion: Implementation of the model combining physician education and public awareness with the infrastructure to diagnose these diseases is effective strategy to increase PID diagnosis.