573. Continuing Medical Education: Leveraging a Digital Tool to Help Improve CMV Management Strategies

BACKGROUND: Increasing the risk for complications and negatively impacting patient health outcomes, an estimated 45% - 80% of HSCT patients experience CMV infection/reactivation, with mortality rates sometimes reaching as high as 60%. Figure. Assessment of Educational Effectiveness [Image: see text] METHODS: This study assessed the ability of digital education to improve the ability of ID specialists to make evidence-based recommendations for CMV management in HSCT recipients. A CME/ABIM MOC educational program featuring interactive discussion between two ID faculty was developed and launched on 12/12/19, on a website dedicated to continuous professional development. Educational effectiveness was assessed with a repeated-pairs pre-/post-assessment study design; each individual served as his/her own control. A chi-square test assessed changes pre- to post-assessment. P values < 0.05 are statistically significant. Effect sizes were evaluated using Cramer’s V (< 0.05 modest; 0.06–0.15 noticeable effect; 0.16–0.26 considerable effect; > 0.26 extensive effect). Data for this matched-learner analysis were collected through 04/14/20. RESULTS: To date, 3315 HCPs (2891 physicians; 162 nurses/NPs) have participated in the activity. Data from the subset of ID specialists (n=190) who answered all pre-/post-assessment questions during the initial study period were analyzed. Following activity participation, significant improvements were observed in the proportion of ID specialists who answered all assessment questions correctly (8% pre vs 28% post; P < .0001; V=.217). Improvements were also observed in several specific areas of assessment (Figure). Additionally, 65% of ID specialists indicated they planned to modify their patient assessment or treatment approach because of participating in the education. CONCLUSION: Participation in this digital educational program significantly improved ID specialists’ ability to differentiate among therapeutic options when developing management strategies for HSCT recipients with CMV infection/reactivation. These findings highlight the potential for well-designed online education to positively impact physicians’ competence and confidence. DISCLOSURES: All Authors: No reported disclosures