Integrating a paradigm shift in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer: Effect of online CME on oncologists' knowledge and competence

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of online continuing medical education on the knowledge and competence of oncologists regarding the management of metastatic renal cell cancer (mCRC) among community oncologists. Methods: The effect of two case-based educational interventions (5000 word interactive text-based and 30-minute video-based) on the treatment of mCRC was analyzed to determine efficacy of online, on-demand, education. The activities launched online in July and December 2017 and data were collected through February 2018. To assess educational effectiveness, participants were asked a set of case-based questions prior to, and again after, exposure to one of the activities. A Chi-square Test of Independence determined statistical significance while Cramer's V was used to estimate the effect of each intervention on oncologists' knowledge and competence. Results: 185 oncologists, 78{%} of whom saw 10 or fewer patients with mCRC per month indicating that they work in the community, were assessed. Upon completion of either activity, a pre- to post-activity assessment improvement was observed in oncologists': Identification of the most appropriate evidence-based regimen for a patient with mCRC that has progressed on two prior therapies (53{%} vs 65{%}, P=0.10; 58{%} vs 87{%}, P{