Abstract: FR-PO020
Impact of Continuing Medical Education/Continuing Education (CME/CE) Course on Primary Care Provider's Understanding of Kidney Diseases and Genetic Testing
Session Information
- Classroom to Bedside: Transforming Medical Education
October 25, 2024 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Educational Research
- 1000 Educational Research
Authors
- Collins, Jemetra, American Kidney Fund, Rockville, Maryland, United States
- Spigler, Michael, American Kidney Fund, Rockville, Maryland, United States
- Kim, Lucia, Pri-Med LLC, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
- Paris, Melanie, American Kidney Fund, Rockville, Maryland, United States
Introduction
Genetic conditions as an underlying cause of certain types of kidney disease (KD) have garnered increased attention in nephrology. Although genetic testing has led to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatment plans for KD patients, identification of potential genetic-based KDs by primary care providers (PCPs) for referral to nephrologists poses barriers to timely and appropriate intervention. Because PCPs often manage earlier stages of CKD independently, limitations in detecting possible genetic KD and understanding of genetic testing may result in missed opportunities to slow progression toward kidney failure. As a remedy, a one-credit, PCP-targeted continuing medical education (CME/CE) webinar was created to educate PCPs on nephrology referral.
Case Description
CME/CE was delivered by a nephrologist and a PCP initially as a live webinar, then posted as an enduring activity, December, 2022-2023. One of four learning objectives was introducing genetic testing options (GTO) and benefits. Faculty discussed screening and diagnosis of CKD, how to recognize which patients may have genetic causes of kidney disease requiring a nephrologist and the role of genetic testing in diagnosis. Pre/post-activity polling measured learner (n=4,540) knowledge competence, confidence along 5 levels, ranging from misinformed to mastery with two questions. Data were analyzed in aggregate.
Discussion
Analysis showed low baseline, with performance moderately better in the live setting than the enduring. Learner mastery increased from <5% pre to >30% post, with a decrease in learners guessing from ~60% to ~1/5. Analysis suggests effectiveness in educating PCPs via a CME/CE course on genetic testing and targeted treatments. PCP education should highlight genetic testing and other CKD diagnostic procedures, especially for patients with KD family history and those with traits consistent with APOL1 gene mutation. PCP-targeted KD CME/CEs can enhance understanding of CKD, referral criteria, and the benefits of timely specialist involvement.