A randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a distance asthma learning program for pediatricians.
OBJECTIVE
To assess provider acceptability of a distance learning program for pediatric asthma and pilot test its effects on physician knowledge, attitudes and treatment practices.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Louisville and the surrounding central Kentucky region.


METHODS
Twenty-four pediatricians in clinical practice. Interventions. A distance learning program for pediatric asthma consisting of Web- or CD-ROM-based multimedia learning modules and two teleconference calls.


METHODS
Learner satisfaction and change in physician asthma knowledge, attitudes, and treatment behavior at 1 to 4 months (short term) and 6 to 8 months (long term).


RESULTS
Pediatricians had graduated from medical school a mean of 11.6 years before baseline (SD +/-8.9); 56% were female. On all learner satisfaction items, the average score was a 4.0 or greater on a 5-point scale, indicating a favorable response from the participants. Participants in the education group reported increased familiarity with asthma guideline for prescribing daily-inhaled corticosteroids compared to control physicians (p = .03) at short-term follow-up. Participants also expressed increased confidence in selecting a medicine for patients requiring a low-dose inhaled steroid (p = .03). However, these differences were not seen at long-term follow-up. Compared to the control group, there was no significant increase in the proportion of patients receiving inhaled steroids for persistent asthma at short- or long-term follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
Pediatricians utilizing an asthma distance learning program expressed a high degree of learner satisfaction. The program was associated with a temporary increase in familiarity and confidence in implementing components of the asthma guidelines.
Le
Tao T
TT
Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
Rait
Michelle A
MA
Jarlsberg
Leah G
LG
Eid
Nemr S
NS
Cabana
Michael D
MD
D001249:Asthma / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D010549:Personal Satisfaction