Online Education Improves Clinicians’ Knowledge and Competence Related to Advances in Cervical Cancer Screening [A44

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Women who test positive on primary screening tests for human papillomavirus (HPV) infection are triaged with Pap to determine whether a colposcopy is needed. The diagnostic variability of Paps may lead to missed diagnosis. Clinicians would benefit from education that will provide expert guidance on best-practice triage strategies for women who test HPV-positive. METHODS: The educational initiative consisted of an online video-based continuing medical education (CME) discussion among three experts, with synchronized slides. Intervention included pre/post study assessment, and McNemar tests (P< .05 level) determined statistical significance. Learners who improved (answered ≥1 questions correctly pre-education than post) were identified. Data are reported from 1/11/2021-10/17/2021. RESULTS: The analysis set consisted of obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) (n=1,086) and primary care providers (PCPs) (n=296). Pre- vs. post-education decisions demonstrated significant improvement (P<.001) in knowledge and competence related to the following for HPV positive women (pre% vs. post%): Knowledge regarding the limitations of traditional cytology methods: 20% of ob-gyns improved (36% pre, 48% post, P<.001); 21% of PCPs improved (28% pre, 41% post, P<.001). Knowledge regarding newer methodologies to triage women with abnormal screening results: 41% of ob-gyns improved (31% pre, 67% post, P<.001); 33% of PCPs improved (24% pre, 49%,P<.001). Competence related to follow-up care: 21% of ob-gyns (16% pre, 30% post, P<.001); 11% of PCPs improved (18% pre, 24% post; P<.05). CONCLUSION: The intervention demonstrates improvements and highlights the role of online video-based CME discussion in improving knowledge and competence related to clinicians’ ability to triage women who are HPV positive or have an abnormal Pap test. Additional gaps were identified for future education.