Interim Assessment of Curriculum-Based Online Education on Nephrologists' Ability to Effectively Assess Gaps in Management of IgAN and Potential Effect of Emerging Therapies

Background: The goal of continuing medical education (CME) is professional growth and improved patient care. We assessed the impact of an online continuing medical education (CME) curriculum on knowledge, competence, and confidence of nephrologists related to current and future management of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). Methods: The online CME curriculum (thus far) consisted of 3 online activities. All activities utilized repeated pairs pre-/post-assessment study design and McNemar’s test (P <.05 is considered significant) to assess educational effect. The activities launched in July and August 2024 and data were collected for up to 12 weeks. Results: As of December 2024, the education reached over 20,000 learners, of which 6,950 were physicians, including over 3,268 nephrologists. Among all learners, 93% agreed the content will impact their practice. Overall, among nephrologists who completed the study requirements within the collection timeframe (N=136-185 depending on which of the 3 activities), knowledge/competence was improved or reinforced for 96% (40% improved, 56% reinforced). Specific knowledge/competence improvements by theme: 12% increase related to burden of IgAN (P<.01). 4% increase related to current and emerging treatment of IgAN (P=.4). 26% increase related to pathophysiology of IgAN (P<.001). Of the nephrologists who were included, 49% reported increased confidence, with a 52% confidence gain among those with increased confidence. Continued gaps include pathophysiology of IgAN (33%), which is needed to effectively select treatment options for various patients, and current and emerging treatment of IgAN (43%), which continues to evolve as new treatments become available. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the success of an online CME curriculum at improving knowledge, competence and confidence of nephrologists related to current and future treatment of IgAN. Multi-component serial learning initiatives should be utilized in the future to continue to advance knowledge, competence and confidence of HCPs related to management of IgAN. Future data around impact of this curriculum will be forthcoming after all educational interventions/activities are assessed.