Abstract 14758: Using Interprofessional Continuing Education to Identify and Address Knowledge and Practice Gaps Regarding Lipoprotein(a) as a Cardiovascular Risk Factor

Abstract

Introduction: High levels of Lp(a) are an independent and casual risk factor for ASCVD, though there is a lack of standardization of assays, guidelines, and targeted treatments. Hypothesis/Goals: To provide a dynamic, expert-led interprofessional continuing education (IPCE) activity for cardiologists, primary care (PC) clinicians, and pharmacists to educate on evolving standards in the assessment and management of Lp(a) as a CV risk factor. Methods: Vindico Medical Education provided a 2-day IPCE webinar on February 11 and 25, 2023. Baseline knowledge and behaviors, educational impact, and persisting perceived challenges were assessed via pre-, intra-, and post-test. Results: Complete datasets were available for 1,364 HCPs (13% cardiologists, 18% PC, 53% pharmacists, 16% other). Baseline knowledge was lowest in all cohorts regarding Lp(a) assessment vs management, and higher among cardiologists vs other professional cohorts. Low baseline knowledge translated to poor baseline competence on case-based questions, particularly regarding assessment and desirable Lp(a) levels. Additionally, only 42% of cardiologists were currently recommending Lp(a) screening for patients. Regarding management, while most were aware that PCSK9 inhibitors produced the greatest reduction in Lp(a) levels, knowledge scores regarding the use of lipid-apheresis and emerging pharmacotherapies was low (30% and 49%, respectively). Moreover, 64% on average were using statins to reduce Lp(a), despite proven benefit. Overall there was a 146% relative increase in knowledge, though the top requested topics for additional education were updates on how and in whom to offer Lp(a) screening and testing, communicating with the interprofessional care team and patient, and options for Lp(a) management, particularly as new options become available. Conclusions: Cardiology, pharmacy, and primary care clinicians who manage at elevated CV risk have inadequate knowledge regarding Lp(a) screening and management. While the IPCE provided addressed these knowledge and practice gaps, continued education is needed to facilitate practice change towards optimal patient care. As new options for screening and treatment become available, continued education is warranted.