Summary
Objectives:
Effective knowledge translation in medicine is an essential element of a modern health
care system. Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are considered relevant
instruments for the transfer of knowledge into clinical practice. To improve this
transfer we have created Internet-based continuing medical education (CME) modules
and online case-based learning objects.
Methods:
Building upon existing CPGs, an e-learning platform including a multi-step review
process was developed to generate CME modules. These CME modules were presented through
a modified content management system (CMS) that fulfils specific requirements of CME.
An online questionnaire using a four-point Likert scale was designed to receive mandatory
feedback from participating physicians. In the second step of development, case-based
learning objects were added to the CMS.
Results:
Existing clinical practice guidelines allowed a rapid development of CME modules
specific to individual clinical indications. The modified CMS proved to be technically
stable but also resource-intensive. 3105 physicians registered and used the platform
between June 2003 and April 2005. 95% of the physicians expressed positive feedback
in an evaluation questionnaire; only 35% of physicians actually used the corresponding
CPGs in practice. Suggestions from the CME users led to the development of interactive
medical case-based learning objects related to the main topics of the CPGs.
Conclusions:
To support the implementation of CPGs, an Internet platform for CME including case-based
learning objects and examination tests was developed. An interactive online CME platform
can support active learning and may establish an additional stimulus for knowledge
translation into daily medical practice.
Keywords
Clinical practice guideline (CPG) - evidence-based medicine (EBM) - continuing medical
education (CME) - knowledge translation - e-learning