Background

Only 1% of Americans eligible for metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) receive MBS. Prior studies have analyzed primary care provider (PCP) referral patterns and perceptions of MBS as a potential barrier to increasing MBS uptake. However, less data exists regarding PCP knowledge of MBS indications and outcomes. Following the 2022 update to the indications for MBS by the ASMBS and IFSO, the number of eligible patients is only expected to increase. We sought to evaluate PCP knowledge regarding the existence of the 2022 ASMBS and IFSO updated guidelines, MBS indications, and MBS outcomes. An 11-question survey was emailed to primary care residents, advanced practice providers, and faculty at a single institution. Of 151 surveys distributed, 39.7% responded (n=60). 95% were unaware of the 2022 updated guidelines. On multiple choice questions, only 16.3% correctly identified the average weight loss from MBS, and 46.8% correctly answered the diabetes remission rate following MBS. Trainee answers were not statistically significant from practicing PCPs. Fifteen of the respondents had referred a patient for MBS, but this subgroup did not perform significantly better on the assessment. 72.3% of respondents reported inadequate education regarding MBS during their training, and 85.1% were interested in additional education. We present the first assessment of PCP MBS knowledge since the release of the 2022 updated ASMBS and IFSO guidelines. This single institution survey indicates a gap in PCPs' knowledge regarding the updated guidelines, and represents an opportunity for collaboration with our primary care colleagues to provide further education on MBS.