Improving diagnostic and administrative coding of child maltreatment – evaluation of an e-learning course for health professionals

Background

Child maltreatment (CM) is a major public health issue. Despite the key role of health professionals in detecting CM, it is significantly underreported in German hospitals. To address existing knowledge gaps in CM identification and coding, a comprehensive e-learning course with focus on CM identification and ICD-10 coding was developed.

Objective

This study provides an overview of the e-learning course and evaluates its effectiveness, namely how course participation changes knowledge, competencies and awareness of health professionals regarding handling cases of CM and coding CM. Satisfaction with the course is also evaluated.

Participants and setting

The sample includes 204 health professionals working in the medical field, the majority of whom are (pediatric) physicians. Of the participants, 173 identified as female, 30 as male, and one as diverse. Age of the participants ranges from 25 to 66.

Methods

Participants completed online questionnaires before and after attending the course. Descriptive analyses and paired t-tests were used to assess satisfaction and changes in knowledge, awareness, and competencies.

Results

Participants showed increased knowledge and competencies after the course, especially for coding CM. Satisfaction with the course was high and its content was deemed applicable to daily practice. In a framework of generally low attention to CM and its coding in the health sector, the course enhanced participants' understanding of the relevance of improved documentation.

Conclusion

E-Learning courses can enhance knowledge, competencies and awareness of CM and its coding, which is crucial for improving documentation and data collection on CM. Therefore, training opportunities should be expanded.