Background: Therapeutic patient education (TPE) is an essential component of hypertension management, contributing to improved treatment adherence and prevention of cardiovascular complications. However, the level of knowledge of general practitioners regarding TPE for hypertensive patients remains insufficiently documented in Libreville, limiting the identification of training needs and the optimization of clinical practices. Objective: To assess the knowledge of general practitioners in Libreville regarding therapeutic patient education for hypertensive patients in order to identify training needs and guide a targeted educational intervention. Methods: This study corresponded to the diagnostic phase of an action-research approach and was based on a descriptive cross-sectional survey conducted from November 14 to 20, 2023. A self-administered online questionnaire adapted from a validated tool was distributed to volunteer general practitioners. Knowledge of TPE was assessed using a 12-item questionnaire, allowing classification into four levels of knowledge. The findings served as the basis for the subsequent implementation of a targeted TPE training workshop. Results: Out of 86 responses received, 59 were analyzed. The general practitioners had a mean age of 31.7 ± 5.9 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 0.96. The mean knowledge score was 5.6 ± 1.3. Knowledge levels were classified as poor in 47.5% of participants, insufficient in 47.5%, and moderate in 5.0%. No participant achieved a good level of knowledge. A frequent confusion between patient information and structured therapeutic education was identified. Conclusion: General practitioners in Libreville have overall insufficient knowledge of therapeutic patient education for hypertensive patients. The action-research approach provides a relevant framework to guide targeted training interventions and improve hypertension management in primary care.
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