Current Practice Patterns and Educational Needs of the ESCMID Study Group for Infections in Compromised Hots.

Abstract

Background: The ESCMID Study Group for Infection in Compromised Hosts (ESGICH) conducted a survey to assess its members' demographics, clinical focus, training pathways, research activities, and educational needs. The primary objective was identifying the current expertise and challenges professionals face in immunocompromised host infectious diseases (ICH-ID) and determining how ESGICH can better support their clinical and research endeavors.

Methods: A structured questionnaire was distributed to ESGICH members by email and was posted on X to collect information on work settings, patient populations, training, collaborative networks, research involvement, and educational experiences. The survey also assessed interest in future educational initiatives, including certification programs and targeted training opportunities.

Results: Overall, 119 colleagues participated in the survey, with the majority being members of ESGICH, which had approximately 230 participants, yielding a response rate of 52%. Most of the respondents were from Europe and noted significant involvement in ICH-ID clinical care and research. Many respondents provide care for transplant recipients and haemato-oncology patients, with varying levels of institutional support, and often had clinical responsibility beyond the ICH-ID population. Training in ICH-ID is inconsistent, with many participants expressing a need for more structured training pathways. Research engagement was high, though support structures varied. Participants identified key educational gaps and expressed interest in webinars, in-person meetings, and certification programs.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for ESGICH to enhance educational opportunities, strengthen research networks, and advocate for standardized ICH-ID training. Addressing these gaps will improve professional development and ultimately enhance patient care for ICHs.