673-P: Certificate Course in Evidence-Based Management of Diabetic Retinopathy: A Unique Partnership Model for Capacity Building of Primary Care Physicians in India

Abstract

Background: In India, 72 million people are suffering from diabetes. Studies showed that every fifth person in India with diabetes could have Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) causing a significant impact on health system. To address this burden, a capacity-building model was initiated with an objective to build the skills and core competencies of physicians for evidence based management of DR. Methodology: Certificate Course in Evidence Based Management of Diabetic Retinopathy (CCDR) is a joint partnership program implemented via a robust curriculum developed by leading academic partners, vetted by 8 renowned Diabetologists/Retina specialists, delivered by 40 Regional Faculty in 20 centers across India, comprised of didactic lectures, case studies and instructional videos. The four modular course conducted as once a month contact session and one session as hands-on-training at premier retina institute with an integral monitoring and supervision mechanism. Results: Over 3 cycles; 445 participants have been trained from 100 districts (159 cities, 22 states and 2 UTs); 42% affiliated to public sector and 51% are postgraduates. Pre/Post-test knowledge score revealed a significant change (p< 0.05). Participants rated overall course as an ‘excellent’ (9.1/10). The course is endorsed by UKRI Council GCRF through Ornate-India and has been adopted by various state government and international organizations. The fourth cycle of the course will train another 100 physicians. To ensure sustainability and expand the reach of the course, it has also been developed into an e-learning platform. Conclusion: This unique educational model has met an excellent response from physicians, which probably reflects the felt need of physician community in India for skill improvement in DR management. Disclosure S. Bhalla: None. P. Kumar: None. H. Chandwani: None. M. Joshi: None.