RESUMO
Background: Although neurological and psychiatric disorders account for only 1.4% of all deaths, they account for a remarkable 28% of all years of life lived with a disability. Thus all doctors must be prepared to meet the needs of patients with such disorders and refer appropriately for specialized care and investigations, bearing in mind that neurologists often function as consultants for other physicians
Methods: We have conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study in Tabuk city population, Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted during the period from October to December 2017. The participants who attended the clinical years and interns at College of Medicine at University of Tabuk were included in the study. The total sample obtained was 104. A self-administered questionnaire, about perception and knowledge about neurological specialties, was filled by participants
Results: The range of age was 21-26, with a mean [SD] of 22.72 [1.837], the majority were interns [34.6%]. Nearly [31%] of them reported neurosurgery as the most difficult specialty
Conclusion: This study highlights some of the reasons and suggestions to improve and correct perception of neurological specialties and subjects