Research as a formative tool: experience with endocrinologists on adrenal insufficiency management

Introduction:   Continuing medical education represents a growing challenge given the rapid expansion of scientific knowledge. Knowledge assessment surveys are valuable tools for identifying educational gaps and, when combined with immediate feedback to participants, add a formative dimension to the investigative process. This report describes and analyzes the formative potential and participant satisfaction in a survey on the knowledge and practices of Brazilian endocrinologists regarding adrenal insufficiency management in stress situations.

Experience report:  A cross-sectional observational study conducted through an online form with 280 endocrinologists from 24 Brazilian states. The instrument included two general questions and eight clinical vignettes on glucocorticoid dose adjustments in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Upon completion, participants automatically received an email with feedback including answer justifications and bibliographic references. Subsequently, a satisfaction survey comprising four dichotomous questions about the participation experience was sent to participants.

Discussion:  Participation in the main survey was substantial, exceeding the calculated sample size and achieving national representativeness, despite potential embarrassment from email collection. The average correct answer rate was 63.3%, revealing gaps in technical knowledge and educator competence. The satisfaction survey response rate was 16.4%, with expected non-response bias. Among respondents, nearly all reported having accessed the feedback, found it useful, and anticipated a positive impact on their clinical practice. All expressed interest in participating in future studies with a similar format.

Conclusion:  Research with immediate formative feedback proved to be a viable and well-received strategy to promote continuing medical education among specialists, integrating knowledge gap diagnosis and professional updating in a single instrument. The model proved to be feasible and well accepted, and may contribute to bridging the gap between the generation of scientific evidence and its application in clinical practice.

Keywords:
Continuing medical education; adrenal insufficiency; Health knowledge, attitudes, practice