A Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of the Geriatrics Update: Clinical Pearls Course

Abstract

Background  The University of Calgary Cumming School of Medicine Annual Geriatrics Update: Clinical Pearls Course (Geriatrics Update) is a one-day, continuing medical education (CME) course designed to enhance geriatrics competency for family physicians (FPs), given increasing population age and complexity. We aimed to evaluate how the course meets FPs’ perceived learning needs and identify modifications that may better support FPs.  Methods  Descriptive data from 2018–2019 course evaluation surveys including demographic data, evaluations, and narrative feedback from participating FPs. Semi-structured phone and video-conferenced interviews with FPs were thematically analyzed each year.  Results  Evaluation surveys had high response rates of FPs (52 or 61% in 2018; 39 or 58% in 2019). Most FP respondents (84% in 2018 and 82% in 2019) intended to make practice changes. FPs were significantly (p=.001) more confident on course objectives after the course in both years. All interviewees (n=20) described fulfilled perceived and unperceived learning needs and planned to return. The Geriatrics Update course is the primary source of Geriatrics CME for 60% of interviewees.  Conclusions  Iterative evaluation of Geriatrics Update identified that the course is well received, and often FPs primary source of geriatric CME. Interviews provided additional context and descriptive feedback to improve course delivery and better meet FP learning needs.