Work

The implication of travel health consultation practice by primary healthcare physicians in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: A BSTRACT Background: With increasing global travel, effective pre-travel health consultations are vital for preventing travel-related illnesses. Primary healthcare physicians (PHCPs) are often the first point of contact for travelers, yet their competency in travel medicine is a global concern, particularly in major travel hubs. This study aimed to assess the practice of travel health consultation among PHCPs in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, a key gateway for international pilgrims and travelers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a validated online questionnaire. Data were collected from 224 PHCPs working in the Ministry of Health and King Abdulaziz University Hospital settings in Jeddah. The practice of travel medicine was assessed via 10 items scored on a Likert scale, with a normalized score of ≥ 80% defined as adequate. Results: The majority of participants (70.5%) demonstrated poor practice levels, with only 3.6% achieving an adequate level. Critical gaps were noted in advising on travel vaccines (13.8% adequate) and malaria chemoprophylaxis (12.5% adequate). Multivariate analysis identified higher self-reported confidence level, receipt of workplace training, being updated on guidelines, and senior professional position (specialist) as significant independent predictors of better practice scores ( P < 0.05). A significant majority reported a lack of formal training and a strong demand for continuing medical education. Conclusion: There is a severe deficit in travel medicine practice among PHCPs in Jeddah. The findings underscore an urgent need for structured, system-level interventions, including integrating travel medicine into training curricula and providing mandatory workplace training, to improve competency and public health preparedness.

Source: Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care

DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_104_26

Authors: Rafeef Jarwan, Shaymaa Abdalal, Yasser Khojah

Institutions: King Abdulaziz University, King Fahad Hospital Jeddah

Language: English

Topic: Travel-related health issues

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $450