Breastfeeding Medicine Knowledge and Self-Efficacy Among Family Medicine Residents and Faculty: A Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: Family medicine physicians are well-suited to provide lactation care due to their experience in caring for both birthing persons and infants. However, past research has suggested that family medicine residents receive inadequate instruction in this topic area during their training. RESEARCH AIM: The aims of this preliminary study are to evaluate the current status of breastfeeding medicine knowledge, self-efficacy, and exposure to breastfeeding-related curricula among family medicine residents and faculty. METHOD: A cross-sectional needs assessment survey was completed by 29 family medicine residents and 27 family medicine faculty across four family medicine programs in Minnesota. RESULTS: Knowledge gaps exist in common breastfeeding concerns for both residents and faculty. Residents and faculty with personal breastfeeding experience were more likely to report confidence and past educational experiences with breastfeeding during their training. CONCLUSIONS: Further research into the relationship between medical knowledge, practice, personal experience with breastfeeding and educational status (faculty vs. resident) would help to elucidate some of these relationships and guide development of high-quality curriculum for all physicians involved in family medicine resident education.