Abstract 9900: Virtual Simulation-Based CME Improves Management of Patients With Vascular Disease

Abstract

Introduction: The ability of virtual patient simulation (VPS) case-based interventions to improve clinical decision making for patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) is unknown. Methods: Two patient cases were presented using a VPS platform where learners could order tests, make diagnoses, and order treatments in a manner matching the scope and depth of actual practice. Clinical decisions were analyzed, and learners received clinical guidance (CG) based on current evidence and expert recommendations. Learners could modify their decisions post-CG. Pre-(baseline) vs. post-CG decisions were compared using McNemar’s test. The intervention launched on July 30, 2021, and data were collected through October 13, 2021. Results: Overall, 143 physicians participated (76 case 1, 67 case 2). Physician specialties included cardiology (74%), and vascular surgery (26%). Most physicians were male (62%) with the following age distribution < 30 (8%), 30-39 (25%), 40-49 (19%), 50-59 (17%), and ≥ 60 (31%). Significant improvements were seen for appropriate diagnosis and treatment selection in the overall learner population; treatment improvements were greatest for tailoring antithrombotic therapy in patients with newly diagnosed PAD ( Table ). Improvements in selection of appropriate antithrombotic treatment were observed for all specialties, although specialty-specific differences were apparent ( Table ). Conclusions: Case-based PAD intervention employing VPS was associated with improvements in diagnostic and therapeutic decision-making among cardiologists and vascular surgeons. Despite the observed improvements, gaps remain in diagnosing and selecting appropriate antithrombotic strategies for patients with PAD.