Implementation of a Virtual Pulmonary Physiology Course in Latin America

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Physiology
• Medical Education
• Pulmonary Medicine

Background:

• Respiratory physiology knowledge is crucial for diagnosing and treating respiratory diseases.
• The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional medical education, necessitating virtual learning solutions.
• Pulmonary fellows in Latin America faced challenges with in-person training due to pandemic restrictions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and outcomes of a virtual education program on pulmonary function tests (PFTs).
• To assess the impact of online learning on the knowledge of pulmonary fellows in Latin America.
• To evaluate the feasibility of virtual PFTs training for international medical trainees.

Main Methods:

• A 3-month virtual learning program on PFTs was developed and delivered online.
• The curriculum covered respiratory mechanics, gas exchange, and cardiopulmonary exercise tests.
• Pre- and post-course evaluations assessed fellows' knowledge in PFTs.

Main Results:

• 205 fellows from 12 countries participated in the virtual PFTs program.
• Initial knowledge was strong in oxygen desaturation and cardiopulmonary exercise tests, with gaps in maximal respiratory pressure and bronchial challenge tests.
• Post-course evaluations indicated improved performance, with highest scores in spirometry and lowest in bronchial challenge tests.

Conclusions:

• Virtual education in pulmonary function tests is a viable and effective training method.
• Online PFTs programs can positively impact the education of pulmonary fellows.
• This virtual approach successfully addressed limitations in traditional medical training during the pandemic.