Online training module helps doctors with Parkinson's awareness

LONDON – A UK-based online training module for GPs and other healthcare professionals to increase awareness of Parkinson's disease has attracted more than 3000 participants, some from as far away as New Zealand.

The Parkinson's Disease Society's (PDS) 2008 membership survey showed that 50 percent of people with Parkinson's believe there is a lack of understanding from GPs and professionals about how to spot and treat the condition.

As a result the PDS commissioned BMJ Learning to produce an online module to help users increase their knowledge and skills in how to care for patients, and how to increase knowledge and skills to assess and refer people with suspected Parkinson's disease.

Daiga Heisters, PDS National Education Adviser, said: "We were delighted with the response to the training. The target of 400 participants to complete the module in the first six months was exceeded, with over 3000 completing in the first five months."

"This reflects the interest healthcare professionals have in increasing their knowledge on the management of Parkinson's, and the effectiveness of BMJ Learning's marketing campaign," Heisters said.

Course participant Alveena Igbal, from Derby City PCT, said: "As our elderly population increases so does the challenge to deal with chronic disabling conditions like parkinsonism. In this context I have found the BMJ Learning module very useful."

Dr Amal Paul from Pudsey, Leeds, said: "As a GP I have to look after a few patients with Parkinson's disease, and the need for further care management was more imperative for me when someone close to me was diagnosed. The module was very interesting, designed for adult learning, interactive and educational. My knowledge and skills have definitely improved and the module was a big impetus for further study."

This module complements the work of the Parkinson?s Disease Society's Education and Training Officers currently working with GPs and other healthcare professionals throughout the UK at a local level.

Due to the success of the pilot, a second learning module is being launched, focusing on non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's such as depression and sleep disorders.