Alpha₁-antitrypsin Deficiency-Increased Knowledge and Diagnostic Testing after Viewing Short Instructional Video

Many individuals with Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (AATD) are unaware of their diagnosis. In the absence of an AATD diagnosis, irreversible damage continues, and incorrect care is provided. Research demonstrates low levels of knowledge about AATD among health care providers. To address this ongoing issue, a short educational video was developed for health care providers with the goal of increasing knowledge and testing for AATD. A five-question test on the video material was developed. Invitations to participate in the study were sent via email to providers at both public teaching hospitals and private practices across the country. Respondents completed three parts online: pre-test, video, and post-test. To confirm retention of knowledge gained, providers who completed all three were invited to take the same test 3-6 months later. There were 683 providers who responded, and 213 completed all three portions; 105 of those providers completed the 3-6-months of follow-up testing. The average pre-test score of the 213 providers was 54.6% (std. dev. = 26.2%). The average post-test score immediately following the video viewing was 74.7% (std. dev. = 27.7%). The average follow-up test score 3-6 months later was 63.2% (std. dev. = 22.0%). During the follow-up period, 11 providers reported testing for AATD for the first time. This short educational video demonstrated both immediate and sustained improvement in knowledge and an increase in testing for AATD. Short digital videos may provide an effective platform for the ongoing effort to identify individuals with AATD.