Knowledge gap of recommendations in ACOG practice bulletins: a survey of members of the Central Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The purpose of this survey was to assess the knowledge gap of recommendations in practice bulletins (PBs). A survey consisting of three questions for 12 selected PBs (six obstetric and six gynecologic) was developed and sent to members of the Central Association. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Of the 385 active members, 100 (26%) returned the survey. The overall correct score was 49%. Respondents were significantly more likely to know recommendations in obstetric PBs (60%) than gynecologic PBs (39%; OR 2.45, 95% CI 2.12-2.81). Maternal-fetal medicine sub-specialists (n=27), compared with obstetricians-gynecologists (n=66), did significantly better with obstetric PBs (67% vs. 59%; OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.32-1.77) and substantially worse with gynecologic topics (34% vs. 39%; OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63-0.98). In conclusion, since members of the Central Association have a substantial knowledge gap, there are ample opportunities to educate and reinforce PB recommendations.