The impact of osteoporosis virtual training course for general practitioners.

UNLABELLED: This study evaluated the impact of a virtual training program on osteoporosis management for general practitioners. Among 498 participants, knowledge scores significantly increased from 38 to 83 (P < 0.001). The findings highlight the effectiveness of targeted education in enhancing practitioners' understanding, ultimately improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs.

PURPOSE: Osteoporosis is a widespread global health concern. Training the general practitioners with updated treatment strategies can notably lessen patient discomfort (fracture and mobility limitation) and costs. So, this study aimed to assess the impact of a training course on osteoporosis management knowledge targeted at general practitioners.

METHODS

A quasi-experimental study was conducted to train general practitioners about Osteoporosis. The study utilized a virtual education program accessible online and contained five key aspects of osteoporosis management. The impact of this program was evaluated by comparing pre-test and post-test scores across all 5 modules. Evaluation of Electronic Modules questionnaire was used to assess the quality of the osteoporosis virtual course. A linear regression analysis explored factors influencing physicians' knowledge percent change in 5 modules.

RESULTS

A total of 498 general practitioners participated in a virtual course on osteoporosis management. The average participant age was 35, and over 70% were women. The mean score for all five modules increased significantly, from 38 to 83, more than double the original score (P < 0.001). The analysis revealed that in Module 3 (Clinical Management), younger participants attained significantly higher post-test scores (β, - 0.28; 95% CI, - 0.55, - 0.01; P, 0.039). Also, most participants agreed or strongly agreed that the system is high-quality, offers valuable information, and services, and is both user-friendly and beneficial.

CONCLUSION

The virtual training course on osteoporosis management principles notably improved the participants' knowledge.