Evaluation of a Web-Based ADHD Awareness Training in Primary Care: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial With Nested...

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Medical Education
• Primary Care Practice

Background:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder with significant long-term impacts.
• General practitioners (GPs) are crucial for early ADHD identification but often face knowledge gaps.
• Barriers in GP understanding of ADHD can impede timely diagnosis and treatment access.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel web-based psychoeducation program designed for GPs.
• To assess the program's impact on GP knowledge, confidence, and attitudes towards ADHD.
• To determine if the intervention improves clinical practice regarding ADHD.

Main Methods:

• A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 221 GPs.
• Participants were assigned to either an awareness training intervention or a control group.
• Data on ADHD knowledge, confidence, and attitudes were collected pre-intervention, post-intervention, and at follow-up.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed statistically significant increases in ADHD knowledge (P<.001) and confidence (P<.001).
• Misconceptions about ADHD decreased significantly (P=.04) and were sustained at follow-up.
• Qualitative data from surveys and interviews indicated a positive shift in clinical practice.

Conclusions:

• A brief, web-based psychoeducation intervention effectively enhances GP understanding and attitudes towards ADHD.
• Improved GP competence can potentially reduce barriers and improve patient access to essential ADHD diagnosis and care.
• This digital approach offers a scalable solution for medical education in ADHD management.