Keyword: education

Dermatologists’ Views on the Use of Teledermatology

Boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic, the adoption of technology has shifted people’s lifestyles, impacting social interactions and leading to an increase in the use of telemedicine, including teledermatology (TD). Social media platforms facilitate communication between patients and physicians, between primary care physicians and specialists, and between dermatologists. The study aimed to assess the attitudes, views, and usage of dermatologists regarding TD consultations. A cross- sectional study was performed with the use of an anonymous, web-based questionnaire intended to be completed by dermatologists. A total number of 73 physicians, both resident and board-certified dermatologists completed the survey. Almost everyone (98.6%) used some form of teledermatology, the most frequently used platforms being WhatsApp, followed by classical telephone calls/messages, email, and other forms of TD. TD is considered to be especially useful in communicating with peer colleagues (94.4%), with physicians of other specialties (90.0%), with family doctors (72.9%) and with patients (69.9%). Since TD can facilitate the treatment-related follow-up of adverse effects, while also being useful in the triage of patients, its use will likely increase in the future. The main concerns were related to the accuracy of the diagnosis through TD, a less developed doctor- patient relationship, a less informative consultation, an increased workload as well and a diminished financial reimbursement. Dermatologists currently use TD in addition to the classical consultations of patients, as well as to communicate with family physicians and peer colleagues to better manage complex cases. Furthermore, TD proves to be an important tool in the education of young dermatologists.

Correlational Analysis of Performance Outcomes during the Education of Combat Medics at the Tactical Medical Training Cell of the Belgian Defense

Combat medics must deploy multiple cognitive, manual, and social skills to perform efficient life-saving interventions and ensure the safe transportation of casualties. In 2021, the Tactical Medical Training Cell of the Belgian Army introduced an immersive and integrative educational program for Advanced Emergency Medicine Technicians (EMTa) certification. This study aims to provide a correlational analysis of performance outcomes during the certification period. While conducting their assessment, candidates were evaluated in three different but complementary roles: Medical Leader (ML), Medical Practitioner (MP), and Tactical Leader (TL). The individual outcomes in theoretical and practical examinations of one hundred thirty-seven candidates were collected during 2021 and 2022. The mean success scores for the theoretical and total practical examinations were 90.6% and 80.1%, respectively. Candidates scored significantly better as TL. Theoretical results were significantly correlated with the ML function, and performances in all three positions were correlated with each other. This study showed that within the combat medic team, individual performances, even if initially well-defined, were associated with the success rates of the other positions. This finding should be considered in the further consolidation of combat medic education.