Continuing Education Evaluations of an Internal Medicine and a Pediatric Podcast

This study aimed to characterize practitioners who use podcasts as a form of continuing education (CE), evaluate attitudes regarding podcasting as a medium for CE, and assess intended practice change after listening to podcasts for CE.

We examined CE data from a mandatory postpodcast evaluation collected between February 2021 and August 2021 for two free podcasts. We analyzed linked episode data containing podcast downloads.

Listeners downloaded 972,691 episodes and claimed 8182 CE credits (less than 1% of total downloads) over 7 months. CE credit was claimed by physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and pharmacists. Most listeners claiming CE credit were not affiliated with an academic institution. Motivation for listening to episodes included a topic of interest, relevance to a patient, and a topic of less comfort. Of individuals obtaining CE, 98% intended to implement change after listening.

Although only a small number of podcast listeners claim CE credit, those who claim credit represent a diverse and interprofessional audience. Listeners select podcasts to fill self-identified learning needs. Overwhelmingly, listeners report podcast CE changes intended practice. Podcasts may be an effective modality for CE and practice change; further research should focus on facilitators and barriers to CE uptake and on patient health outcomes.