Expanding access to biologics: a pilot ECHO program for primary care providers

Abstract

The Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program is a teleteaching model connecting academic medical centers with primary care providers (PCPs) in underserved areas through virtual learning. This pilot study aimed to assess whether ECHO could effectively train rural PCPs on dermatologic biologic indications, management, side effects, and prescription assistance programs and serve as a method to increase access to care. A pre-recruitment survey was used to determine feasibility of the program. Eight PCPs were recruited via flyers and email to participate in an eight-session, continuing medical education (CME)-accredited series. Sessions featured 20-minute talks on topics like biologic classes, indications, and prior authorization strategies, followed by case-based discussions. Post-session surveys assessed changes in PCPs’ self-reported knowledge, patient care ability, plans to make changes in their practice, and sense of professional isolation regarding biologic use and feedback on the sessions. Post-session self-reported responses showed increase in knowledge of biologics, improvement of patient care ability, plans to make changes in their practice, and a decreased sense of professional isolation. This pilot study shows that the ECHO model could be utilized to educate PCPs on dermatologic biologics and may increase access to specialty medications in underserved communities.