A mixed-method evaluation of a general practice paediatric education programme, using Moore's outcomes framework for...

General Practitioners (GPs) are key providers of paediatric care but do not always feel confident to manage paediatric presentations. This study aimed to assess the acceptability of a multifaceted, online paediatric education programme and its impact on GPs' knowledge, confidence, and perceived practice.

The study design was informed by Moore's conceptual framework for planning and assessing learning in continuing medical education activities. A mixed methods evaluation was undertaken using quantitative survey data collected pre- and post-webinars and after six months, and analysed descriptively. Qualitative data from semi-structured interviews were analysed thematically.

135 GPs participated in the education programme. 71 and 81 responses were received for pre- and post-webinar surveys. Mean knowledge and confidence ratings improved post-webinar (from 2.2/4 (95% CI, 2.0-2.3) to 3.3/4 (95% CI, 3.1-3.4), p < 0.001, and 2.1/4 (95% CI, 2.0-2.3) to 3.3/4 (95% CI, 3.1-3.4), p < 0.001, respectively). Six-to-twelve-month survey participants (n = 28) and interview participants (n = 7) overwhelmingly described the programme as relevant, engaging, and self-reported improvement in knowledge, confidence and clinical practice. Facilitators of success included providing opportunities for questioning, availability of live and recorded webinars, and a community of practice.

An online paediatric education programme for GPs was acceptable, relevant and impactful, with its impact on practice requiring further evaluation. The study provides evidence for effective online education of GPs which can be delivered at scale.