The Value of Online CME in the Multidisciplinary Care of Patients with NTRK Fusion-Positive Thyroid Cancer

• Published in: International journal of radiation oncology, biology, physics Vol. 112; no. 5; pp. e50 - e51
• Main Authors: Worst, M.A., Carothers, A., Surducan, M., Sipos, J., Wirth, L.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01.04.2022
• ISSN: 0360-3016; 1879-355X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.12.117

Neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK) gene fusions are classified as actionable, but rare molecular markers in thyroid cancer (TC). Recently, two targeted therapies have been approved for pediatric and adult patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors with NTRK gene fusions, marking the first small molecule inhibitor with a tissue agnostic indication. As a result of these advancements and the changing treatment landscape, staying current with emerging data and the impact on TC treatment paradigms can be challenging. The objective of this study was to determine if an online continuing medical education (CME) intervention could improve oncologists’ and endocrinologists’ understanding of NTRK gene fusions and available treatment options for patients with NTRK fusion-positive TC. The activity consisted of a 40-minute video discussion between two expert faculty. Educational effect was assessed with a repeated pairs pre-/post-assessment study including a 3-item, multiple choice, knowledge questionnaire and one confidence assessment question, with each participant serving as his/her own control. Pre- and post-assessment scores were compared to determine relative changes in the proportion of correct responses to knowledge questions. A paired samples t-test assessed overall number correct and confidence change and a McNemar's test assessed individual question statistical significance. The activity launched 5 May 2021; data were collected until 30 July 2021. The total number of learners was 650 (oncologists, N=192; endocrinologists, N=458). Overall, statistically significant improvements in knowledge were seen after education consumption for responding oncologists (N=60, P < .01) and endocrinologists (N=101, P < .001). Relative improvement in correct answers was 35% for oncologists and 54% for endocrinologists (total correct responses pre-/post-assessment were 46%/62% and 35%/54%, respectively). When evaluating outcomes by individual knowledge learning objective, statistically significant improvements were observed for both oncologists and endocrinologists (P < .05). Following the activity, 43% of oncologists and 50% of endocrinologists had a measurable increase in confidence regarding their ability to coordinate the care of patients with NTRK fusion-positive TC with other members of the healthcare team. Participation in an online, video discussion-based CME-certified activity resulted in statistically significant improvements in knowledge and measurable increases in confidence of oncologists and endocrinologists regarding NTRK gene fusions and available treatment options for patients with NTRK fusion-positive TC. The need for additional educational activities was also identified to address residual gaps and further increase clinicians’ ability in this clinical setting.