Long term effects of digital education among healthcare professionals in paediatric dermatology: Opportunities for improving care

Background: Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are the cornerstone of treatment for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Unfortunately, anxiety and misplaced beliefs on TCS, known as corticophobia, is common among health care professionals (HCPs) and could influence their practices, resulting in suboptimal patient care. Objectives: To investigate the effects of digital education (DE) on the knowledge of TCS, practices and corticophobia among HCPs in paediatric dermatology. Methods: HCPs registered for an interactive online masterclass on paediatric dermatology including the treatment of AD and TCS were invited to participate in a survey on knowledge of TCS, self-reported practices and corticophobia. Corticophobia was measured using the TOPICOP-P questionnaire (range: 0%–100%, with higher scores indicating more corticophobia). Participants received the survey before, directly after, and 6 months after DE. Results: Of the 86 participants, 66 (77%) completed the survey before the masterclass, 76 (88%) directly after, and 34 (40%) 6 months after. Key components of knowledge on TCS and self-reported practices improved greatly after DE, such as correct prescription amount of TCS (45%, 91%, 88%) and application instructions (56%, 99%, 94%). Overall corticophobia decreased after DE with median scores dropping from 33% before DE to 25% after DE (p < 0.01) and remained 25% 6 months later. Conclusion: Interactive DE for HCPs is an efficient tool to attain prolonged improvements of knowledge on TCS, practices, and corticophobia. All these factors are important for optimal care for patients. This study shows great opportunities for improving care by investing in HCPs.