Combining feedback from simulated cases and prescribing. Design and implementation of an educational intervention in...

To develop and evaluate a new model of continuing medical education (CME) for general practitioners (GPs). The study is part of the joint European Drug Education Project (DEP). This paper presents the Swedish part regarding the design of the evaluation study, the educational methodology, and the participants' evaluation.

An educational model was developed. Two peer group discussions (facilitated by a GP/pharmacist team), including individual feedback on the GPs' judgments of written simulated cases and prescribing, were main components. The model was tested in a parallel randomized controlled study including 36 GP groups, allocated to education on asthma or urinary tract infections. Background and outcome data were knowledge and attitudes (K/A) assessed by a questionnaire and prescribing practices for actual and written simulated cases. The GPs' evaluation of the model was captured through a questionnaire.

All 36 groups completed the program. The mean participation rate in the group discussions was 75%. The response rates were 82-98% regarding outcome data K/A questionnaire and written cases), and 80% regarding the evaluation questionnaire. Prescribing data were captured for 99% of the GPs. Both group discussions were considered important by 84-89%. Eighty-seven percent wished to take part in similar CME activities for other conditions. About 80% reported that their purpose in participating had been fulfilled.

It was feasible to evaluate the developed educational model by using a two-armed parallel study design. The model was well received by the participants.