Improving Physician Knowledge about Developmental Coordination Disorder
Author Information
Author(s): Gaines Robin, Missiuna Cheryl, Egan Mary, McLean Jennifer
Primary Institution: Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute
Hypothesis
Educational outreach and collaborative care can enhance physicians' knowledge and skills in managing Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD).
Conclusion
Educational outreach significantly improved physicians' knowledge about DCD and their ability to diagnose and manage the condition.
Supporting Evidence
- 91% of participating physicians reported greater knowledge about DCD post-intervention.
- 29.2% of participating physicians could diagnose DCD after the intervention, compared to 0.5% of non-participating physicians.
- 100% of physicians who participated in collaborative care indicated they would continue to use the project materials.
Takeaway
Doctors learned more about a condition called DCD that makes it hard for some kids to move well, and they got better at helping those kids.
Methodology
The study used a mixed methods evaluation approach with pre- and post-project surveys, quantitative measures, and focus groups.
Potential Biases
Participants may have been more motivated and open to learning, which could affect the results.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable due to self-selection bias among participating physicians and the demographic skew towards female physicians.
Participant Demographics
Of the 147 physicians, 68% were female, and they included family physicians and community pediatricians.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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