Assessing Attitudes and Confidence in Managing Erectile Dysfunction Among Urology, Internal Medicine, and Family Medicine Providers.

Objective: To assess and contrast attitudes and confidence regarding erectile dysfunction (ED) treatment among urologists (GU) and primary care providers (PCPs), identifying areas for collaboration, practice improvement, and additional training to enhance men's healthcare (MH) quality and access.

Methods: An anonymous survey with 25 questions on ED treatment, rated on a 5-point Likert scale, was conducted among our institution's providers in GU, internal medicine (IM), and family medicine (FM). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test.

Results: One hundred thirty-eight providers responded, including 58 IM, 47 FM, and 33 GU. FM and IM responses generally overlapped with some differences. IM was more positive regarding vacuum erection device (VED) and inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) satisfaction and risk. Comparing GU to FM + IM, GU displayed greater confidence and knowledge about ED. Notably, 63% of GU used the validated International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) compared to 3% of FM + IM. Additionally, 100% of GU strongly/agreed that good options remained after pills failed versus 83% of FM + IM. Significant differences in GU versus FM + IM perspectives on IPP included patient willingness to undergo surgery for ED (67% vs 12%), patient satisfaction (91% vs 28%), partner satisfaction (79% vs 26%) and willingness to recommend/repeat surgery (82% vs 17%). Notably, 82% of GU versus 10% of FM + IM were aware that Medicare covered implants.

Conclusion: This survey reveals significant knowledge gaps in ED treatment between GU and PCPs. Targeted provider education, particularly about penile prostheses, could optimize patient care.