Contemporary clinical issues in outpatient obstetrics and gynecology: findings of the Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network, 2001-2004: part I.

Obstetrician/gynecologists are taking on more primary care responsibilities and thus are expected to have a wider base of medical knowledge on a variety of women's health issues. The Collaborative Ambulatory Research Network (CARN) was created in 1990 to investigate issues pertinent to women's health and to the practice of obstetrics and gynecology in the outpatient setting. This article summarizes the findings of CARN studies from 2001 to 2004, covering topics of infectious diseases, cancer screening, and metabolism and nutrition. Each study provides a glimpse into the current practice patterns, attitudes, and knowledge of the practicing obstetrician/gynecologist. Although aggregate results suggest that clinicians are consistent and knowledgeable in traditional areas of practice, there appears to be a need for comprehensive educational programs to increase clinicians' comfort level with and knowledge of many contemporary primary care issues.