Internet-Based Continuing Education Course on STDs for Physicians and Midwives in Peru
Author Information
Author(s): Canchihuaman Fredy A., Garcia Patricia J., Gloyd Stephen S., Holmes King K.
Primary Institution: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia
Hypothesis
Can an interactive Internet-based continuing education course improve knowledge and practices regarding sexually transmitted diseases among clinicians in Peru?
Conclusion
The Internet-based continuing education course was feasible, well-accepted, and led to sustained improvement in knowledge among participants at four months.
Supporting Evidence
- 96.4% of participants completed the course.
- Knowledge scores improved from 64.2% to 77.9% at follow-up.
- 95% of participants found the course useful for their work needs.
Takeaway
Doctors and midwives in Peru took an online course about sexually transmitted diseases, and most learned a lot from it, but they didn't change how they treated patients.
Methodology
The study evaluated a pre-post design with knowledge assessments before, immediately after, and four months after the course.
Potential Biases
Self-selection bias may have influenced participant outcomes, as those who chose to participate may have been more motivated.
Limitations
The study lacked a control group and relied on self-reported practices, which may not accurately reflect actual changes.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 510 private practice physicians and 132 public sector clinicians, with an average age of 41.5 years for physicians and 38 years for midwives.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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