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Article
Dermoscopic lotus of learning: implementation and dissemination of a multimodal dermoscopy curriculum for primary care
Project ECHO Bibliography
  • Elizabeth Seiverling, Maine Medical Center, Portland, ME, USA
  • Hadjh Ahrns, Maine Medical Partners Primary Care, Westbrook, ME, USA
  • Kathryn Stevens, Maine Medical Partners Dermatology, South Portland, ME, USA
  • Lindsay Ayers, Maine Medical Center Research Institute, Scarborough, ME, USA
  • Tyler Nussinow, Maine Medical Partners Dermatology, South Portland, ME, USA
  • Gregory Dorr, Maine Medical Center Quality Improvement, Portland, ME, USA
  • Peggy Cyr, Maine Medical Partners Family Medicine, Portland, ME, USA
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2021
Abstract

Dermoscopy is a cost-effective tool for detection of skin cancers yet there is limited training available for primary care. The goal of this project was to develop, implement, and disseminate a multimodal curriculum for primary care across a health system based on a previously validated algorithm (Triage Amalgamated Dermoscopic Algorithm; TADA). This cross-sectional study analyzes the dermoscopy workshop intervention of a dermoscopy multimodal curriculum. Volunteers attended one 120-minute dermoscopy workshop on benign and malignant growths using a validated algorithm. Participants took a 30-image pre- and posttest. Survey questions on dermoscopy use, preferences for learning, and skin biopsy performance were included to enhance curriculum development. About 96 participants completed both pre- and postintervention tests. The mean preintervention score (out of 30) was 18.6 and increased to 24.4 on the postintervention evaluation. There was a statistically significant improvement in scores for both benign and malignant skin growths after the intervention (P < .05). Short dermoscopy workshops have a positive intervention effect when training primary care providers to identify images of benign and malignant dermoscopic skin lesions. A multimodal dermoscopy curriculum allows learners to build on initial training using spaced review and blended learning strategies. The “Dermoscopic Lotus of Learning” has the potential to be a model for other primary care residency programs. A healthy partnership between dermatologists and primary care is essential.

Citation Information
Seiverling, E., Ahrns, H., Stevens, K., Ayers, L., Nussinow, T., Dorr, G., & Cyr, P. Dermoscopic lotus of learning: implementation and dissemination of a multimodal dermoscopy curriculum for primary care. Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development. 2021; 8, https://doi.org/10.1177/238212052198998