Experience of distance learning of a multidisciplinary approach in the management of an elderly patient with a low-energy fracture

BACKGROUND: In the Russian Federation, high mortality and unsatisfactory treatment results of elderly and senile patients with low-energy fractures have been noted. Urgent implementation of a systematic approach to the treatment and prevention of osteoporotic fractures is needed, for which it is necessary to train a large number of medical professionals involved in care of these patients. AIM: To create a distance learning course demonstrating the importance and effectiveness of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of an elderly patient with a fracture and to evaluate its effectiveness. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The course used the TeleECHO technology based on the analysis of specific clinical cases by a multidisciplinary team of experts. Active interaction with the audience was carried out through interactive voting. The evaluation of the effectiveness of training was carried out using a questionnaire conducted before and after the course. RESULTS: The training was attended by doctors and health care managers from 208 regions of the Russian Federation, as well as 10 other countries, most of whom were orthopedic surgeons. A survey conducted before the course showed an unsatisfactory audiences understanding of current approaches to the care for elderly people with fractures. Upon completion of the training, most of the participants mastered the principles of the orthogeriatric approach and were ready to implement them into their practice. 94% of the attendees expressed their willingness to participate in future sessions on this topic. CONCLUSIONS: Distance learning of the principles of a multidisciplinary approach in the health care for elderly patients with low-energy fractures, based on participation of trainees in the discussion of specific clinical cases along with experts, will allow the widespread introduction of current principles of orthogeriatrics into clinical practice.