Patient education is important for successful management of
atopic dermatitis; however, due to limited
time and
resources,
patient education remains insufficient. This study aimed to investigate the current
state of
education provided by Korean
dermatologists, pediatric
allergists, and
allergists to
patients with
atopic dermatitis. A
questionnaire survey consisting of items regarding educational programs for
patients with
atopic dermatitis was conducted via
e-mail. In total, 153 participants responded to the
questionnaires, and 26.8% indicated that they have had separate educational programs. The
workforce involved in the educational program included
nurses, residents or fellows,
dieticians,
pharmacists, and clinical
psychologists. Most
education protocols addressed the characteristics and natural
course of
atopic dermatitis and
environmental management. Overall, 96.7% of the participants replied that an additional
charge is needed for
education; moreover, additional assistance from an academic society or
association, in the form of
medical staff, organized data, and advertisement, is required to develop and provide a well-structured educational program. A standardized
education protocol
will effectively provide appropriate
education for
patients with
atopic dermatitis. Arrangement of
education fees, covered by the
National Health Insurance Service,
will lead to the establishment of a structured educational program and participation of an additional medical
workforce.