252. THE PHYSIO MATTERS PODCAST: SOLVING SPONDYLOARTHROPATHY

Abstract

Background: The Physio Matters Podcast (TPMP) is a monthly interview show directed at Physiotherapists but downloaded and listened to by a range of clinicians all over the world. As an open access podcast, TPMP asserts significant influence on clinical practice by offering front line clinicians unrestricted access to pioneering researchers and industry experts. In February 2016, Chews Health's Rheumatology Specialist Physiotherapist, Jack March interviewed Dr Karl Gaffney with the aim of increasing understanding and awareness of spondyloarthritis (SpA), reducing delay to diagnosis and improving care. Method(s): The objective of TPMP is to deliver contemporary, clinically applicable information directly to clinicians. By discussing formation of opinions and exploring clinical context, the podcasts allow listeners to access far more than pure data. This combination of evidence and implementation ensures seamless application to the clinical 'front line'. Contemporary journal articles, information on symptom recognition, how to proceed in different clinical scenarios and treatment options are discussed with Dr Gaffney. A portion of the podcast was also recorded with Matthew Briggs from the National Ankylosing Spondylitis Society, signposting clinicians and patients to invaluable information and support. Promotion and feedback is primarily via social media where the Podcast has a following of 13,146 across platforms (Twitter 7,621, Facebook 4,713, YouTube 812) and a dedicated email account. Result(s): To date there have been a total of 19,738 listens of over 90% of the audio (combined iTunes, Android and YouTube) and holds a 5 star rating on iTunes. Fifty percent of listeners are in the UK, Europe 18%, North America 14%, and rest of the world 18%. Health care professional split is Physiotherapists 80%, Chiropractors and Osteopaths 7%, Doctors 1% and others 13%. Feedback was received from a number of departments suggesting they were going to change practice and protocol as a direct result of the podcast. There was also feedback from a number of patients complimenting the information provided and voicing that there should be other similar projects raising awareness of SpA. Conclusion(s): Downloadable audio content counters many difficulties befalling the written material of both the formal (academic) and informal (blog) methods of Continued Professional Development. Mass dissemination across a number of platforms enables maximum reach and accessibility. The majority of listeners download or stream direct to an electronic device allowing for engagement while 'on the go' such as during commuting and leisure time. The success of 'Solving Spondyloarthropathy' Podcast, as well as subsequent podcasts, suggests that clinicians are increasingly interested to receive their CPD material in audio format. The level of interest and feedback received from this Rheumatology podcast suggests that similar projects would be well received. This represents a novel, efficient and rapid way of disseminating the latest information, research and best practice.