#177 Assessment and comparison of physician gaps related to clinical knowledge of IgA nephropathy

Abstract

Abstract Background and Aims Understanding physician gaps related to IgA nephropathy (IgAN) can inform development of tools to improve physician knowledge and competence related to both diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, comparisons among specialists (nephrologists) and generalists (primary care physicians, PCPs) can segment educational needs for combined or customized education to close identified gaps. Method A survey instrument of 25 multiple choice, knowledge- and case-based questions allowed participants to assess their clinical knowledge related to IgAN. The survey was available online to physicians without monetary compensation or charge. Respondent confidentiality was maintained and responses were de-identified and aggregated prior to analyses. Initial data collection occurred from March 16, 2023 to May 19, 2023. Results In total, 98 nephrologists and 57 PCPs completed the full assessment within the data collection period. Conclusion This assessment of physicians’ clinical knowledge yielded important insights into gaps related to IgAN. Both nephrologists and PCPs need education on pathophysiology of IgAN and emerging treatment pathways, role of proteinuria and risk correlations to ESRD with IgAN, clinical use of the International IgAN Prediction Tool, and KDIGO recommendations for managing IgAN. PCPs need additional education on basic IgAN prevalence as well as clinical strategies for diagnosis. Further studies are planned to assess the effect of medical education on decreasing these clinical practice gaps.