Article type
Abstract
Background: Educational outreach visiting (EV) is an established implementation strategy to influence practice behaviours. In October 2020, the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE) introduced an EV service, targeting general practitioners (GPs). Initially designed as an in-person initiative, it transitioned to an online format during the COVID-19 pandemic. One-to-one virtual discussions on best available evidence were scheduled at the GPs’ convenience, with continuing professional education points awarded.
Objectives: It is imperative to consider the suitability of EV versus other implementation strategies for an upcoming type 2 diabetes (T2DM) programme post-pandemic, and reassess the EV engagement model to ensure its relevance, efficiency, and evaluable impact.
Method: Suitability of EV as an implementation activity for T2DM was reviewed, including the need for modifications to improve user receptiveness, specifically examining the target audience, engagement channels, and session delivery methods, taking into consideration stakeholder feedback and management concerns. There was no consumer involvement.
Results: The T2DM programme will continue to target private GPs, where knowledge, attitudes and practice are more heterogeneous. Enrolment of Primary Care Network (PCN) doctors will be prioritised, given their pivotal role in supporting Healthier SG, a nationwide initiative to advance preventive healthcare. Promotional efforts will focus on targeted engagements with PCN leads to optimise sign-ups.
There is a lack of conclusion on superiority of one implementation strategy over another. EV remains an integral activity to engage doctors in more personalised and constructive discussions to encourage practice change versus other activities. EV will continue to be offered in an online format for scheduling flexibility and convenience. A small-group session option (up to 4 doctors) will be introduced based on feedback to enhance collaborative learning and address manpower constraints to increase efficiency and reach, whilst maintaining the personalised and interactive element. Case studies will be incorporated to convey key messages and facilitate discussions.
Conclusion: The upcoming T2DM EV programme presents a strategic opportunity to review our implementation approach, ensuring flexibility and alignment with diverse stakeholder needs to influence clinician practice and optimise patient health outcomes. Implementation and outcomes of the new EV model should be evaluated in comparison to the old model.
Objectives: It is imperative to consider the suitability of EV versus other implementation strategies for an upcoming type 2 diabetes (T2DM) programme post-pandemic, and reassess the EV engagement model to ensure its relevance, efficiency, and evaluable impact.
Method: Suitability of EV as an implementation activity for T2DM was reviewed, including the need for modifications to improve user receptiveness, specifically examining the target audience, engagement channels, and session delivery methods, taking into consideration stakeholder feedback and management concerns. There was no consumer involvement.
Results: The T2DM programme will continue to target private GPs, where knowledge, attitudes and practice are more heterogeneous. Enrolment of Primary Care Network (PCN) doctors will be prioritised, given their pivotal role in supporting Healthier SG, a nationwide initiative to advance preventive healthcare. Promotional efforts will focus on targeted engagements with PCN leads to optimise sign-ups.
There is a lack of conclusion on superiority of one implementation strategy over another. EV remains an integral activity to engage doctors in more personalised and constructive discussions to encourage practice change versus other activities. EV will continue to be offered in an online format for scheduling flexibility and convenience. A small-group session option (up to 4 doctors) will be introduced based on feedback to enhance collaborative learning and address manpower constraints to increase efficiency and reach, whilst maintaining the personalised and interactive element. Case studies will be incorporated to convey key messages and facilitate discussions.
Conclusion: The upcoming T2DM EV programme presents a strategic opportunity to review our implementation approach, ensuring flexibility and alignment with diverse stakeholder needs to influence clinician practice and optimise patient health outcomes. Implementation and outcomes of the new EV model should be evaluated in comparison to the old model.