573. Continuing Medical Education: Leveraging a Digital Tool to Help Improve CMV Management Strategies

Abstract

BackgroundIncreasing the risk for complications and negatively impacting patient health outcomes, an estimated 45% - 80% of HSCT patients experience CMV infection/reactivation, with mortality rates sometimes reaching as high as 60%.Figure. Assessment of Educational Effectiveness MethodsThis study assessed the ability of digital education to improve the ability of ID specialists to make evidence-based recommendations for CMV management in HSCT recipients. A CME/ABIM MOC educational program featuring interactive discussion between two ID faculty was developed and launched on 12/12/19, on a website dedicated to continuous professional development. Educational effectiveness was assessed with a repeated-pairs pre-/post-assessment study design; each individual served as his/her own control. A chi-square test assessed changes pre- to post-assessment. P values < 0.05 are statistically significant. Effect sizes were evaluated using Cramer’s V (< 0.05 modest; 0.06–0.15 noticeable effect; 0.16–0.26 considerable effect; > 0.26 extensive effect). Data for this matched-learner analysis were collected through 04/14/20.ResultsTo date, 3315 HCPs (2891 physicians; 162 nurses/NPs) have participated in the activity. Data from the subset of ID specialists (n=190) who answered all pre-/post-assessment questions during the initial study period were analyzed. Following activity participation, significant improvements were observed in the proportion of ID specialists who answered all assessment questions correctly (8% pre vs 28% post; P < .0001; V=.217). Improvements were also observed in several specific areas of assessment (Figure). Additionally, 65% of ID specialists indicated they planned to modify their patient assessment or treatment approach because of participating in the education.ConclusionParticipation in this digital educational program significantly improved ID specialists’ ability to differentiate among therapeutic options when developing management strategies for HSCT recipients with CMV infection/reactivation. These findings highlight the potential for well-designed online education to positively impact physicians’ competence and confidence.Disclosures All Authors: No reported disclosures