456-P: Ongoing Knowledge Gaps in Antiplatelet Therapy for High-Risk Diabetes Patients with CAD

Abstract

Patients with diabetes and coronary artery disease (CAD) are at increased risk for atherothrombotic events compared to CAD patients without diabetes. Current antiplatelet therapy may not be adequate in these high-risk patients, and several recent clinical trials have evaluated the use of more potent agents in this setting. Therefore, it is crucial to educate clinicians about their results and clinical practical implications. CMHC organized a CME virtual symposium to educate multi-disciplinary clinicians and assessed the changes in knowledge and competence using pre-/post assessment questions. A Chi-Square test was used to analyze the percentage of correct responses and determine statistical significance (p <0.05). The activity took place on Oct. 23, 2020, with participation of 263 healthcare professionals (MD/DO, PAs, RNs, NPs, PharmDs) representing specialties that treat high-risk diabetes patients with CAD (including 48% PCPs, 24% cardiologists, 23% endocrinologists). A slight increase in knowledge about recent clinical trial results was observed, though not statistically significant (9.2% relative increase in knowledge compared to baseline, p = 0.5). Conversely, a significant increase in competency in selecting correct treatment regimens to prevent adverse CVD events in high-risk diabetes patients with CAD was demonstrated (58% relative increased to baseline, p=.0002); however, only ~60% of participants opted for the correct option. According to post-activity evaluation (n=208), 29% identified insurance and financial issues, 28% identified formulary restriction, and 9% not knowing treatment-related adverse events as the primary barriers to implementing change in their practices. It is evident from the outcomes of this educational activity that there was a noticeable gap in attendee’s knowledge about advances in antiplatelet therapy in patients with diabetes and CAD. A series of educational activities is imperative to increase awareness and improve patient outcomes. Disclosure S. Karandrea: None. N. Agarwal: None. A. Jamrogiewicz: None. Funding AstraZeneca (62051961)