2553. Addressing Knowledge and Practice Gaps in HIV Management with Engaging Continuing Education

BACKGROUND: Given the rapid evolution of HIV management guidelines and the emergence of new treatment paradigms, infectious disease specialists are challenged to stay current on the latest evidence-based care and how to tailor treatment to optimally meet an individual patient’s needs. To address identified knowledge and practice gaps regarding the care of patients with HIV, an engaging continuing education (CE) initiative was implemented, and the impact of the education on provider knowledge and practice was measured. METHODS: Vindico Medical Education partnered with Purdue University College of Pharmacy to deliver a highly engaging, 2.0-credit hour, CE initiative at ID week in October 2018. The symposium was comprised of multiple formats, including didactic presentations, case-based discussion, and the gamified segment, Wheel of HIV Knowledge. Coverage of the live program was posted to Healio.com, extending the reach of the education. Analysis of the impact of this education was achieved via pre- and post-test test assessment. RESULTS: 357 healthcare providers participated in the live session, and 236 have accessed the web activity as of April 2019. The gamified and case-based segments of the live activity engaged on average 70% of learners and revealed insights into current practice patterns and persisting gaps in knowledge regarding the latest, evidence-based HIV care. Across the curriculum, there was a 46% relative increase in knowledge and competence. A total of 223 providers who see on average 15 patients per month with HIV completed the education, resulting in approximately 2,500 patients with HIV per month who are more likely to receive the latest evidence-based care. Moreover, 3 months following the education, 55% of providers reported implementing practice improvements, including applying the latest clinical guidelines and recommendations. Of those providers who implemented changes, 47% observed patient improvements such as improved adherence, satisfaction, and reduced viral loads. CONCLUSION: In recent years of rapid advances for HIV management, providers are challenged to administer the latest evidence-based care. This study highlights the power of engaging CE to address persisting knowledge and practice gaps toward the delivery of enhanced care for patients with HIV. DISCLOSURES: All authors: No reported disclosures.