Effect of an EBM course in combination with case method learning sessions: an RCT on professional performance, job satisfaction, and self-efficacy of occupational physicians.
OBJECTIVE
An intervention existing of an evidence-based medicine (EBM) course in combination with case method learning sessions (CMLSs) was designed to enhance the professional performance, self-efficacy and job satisfaction of occupational physicians.


METHODS
A cluster randomized controlled trial was set up and data were collected through questionnaires at baseline (T0), directly after the intervention (T1) and 7 months after baseline (T2). The data of the intervention group [T0 (n = 49), T1 (n = 31), T2 (n = 29)] and control group [T0 (n = 49), T1 (n = 28), T2 (n = 28)] were analysed in mixed model analyses. Mean scores of the perceived value of the CMLS were calculated in the intervention group.


RESULTS
The overall effect of the intervention over time comparing the intervention with the control group was statistically significant for professional performance (p < 0.001). Job satisfaction and self-efficacy changes were small and not statistically significant between the groups. The perceived value of the CMLS to gain new insights and to improve the quality of their performance increased with the number of sessions followed.


CONCLUSIONS
An EBM course in combination with case method learning sessions is perceived as valuable and offers evidence to enhance the professional performance of occupational physicians. However, it does not seem to influence their self-efficacy and job satisfaction.
Hugenholtz
Nathalie I R
NI
Coronel Institute of Occupational Health, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. n.i.hugenholtz@amc.uva.nl
Schaafsma
Frederieke G
FG
Nieuwenhuijsen
Karen
K
van Dijk
Frank J H
FJ
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000193:education*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007588:Job Satisfaction; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009426:Netherlands; D009787:Occupational Medicine / Q000193:education*; D010820:Physicians / Q000523:psychology*; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D012044:Regression Analysis; D020377:Self Efficacy; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires