Dermoscopic lotus of learning: implementation and dissemination of a multimodal dermoscopy curriculum for primary care

Authors

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.

Recommended Citation

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