Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT907

Background: Despite the benefits of patient and public involvement (PPI) in enhancing patient-centred care, there is limited integration of PPI into simulation-based learning (SBL) educational frameworks. Simulation via Instant Messaging for Bedside Application (SIMBA) is a SBL model that improves healthcare professionals’ (HCPs) confidence in managing various medical scenarios.

Objectives: • To evaluate the change in HCPs’ confidence in managing adrenal disorders. • To explore the impact of integrating PPI to SBL on the HCP’s practice and acceptability. • To gather patient insight on this SBL-PPI model.

Methods: This mixed-methods study, conducted in the UK from June 2023 to March 2024, involved a two-day hybrid simulation-based learning (SBL) event featuring nine scenarios related to adrenal conditions. Patients with conditions represented in the scenarios participated in one-to-one virtual workshops coordinated by an early career researcher. They provided feedback on what worked well, areas for improvement, and how accurately the cases reflected real-life experiences. Workshop discussions were transcribed and analysed using content analysis to summarise patient insights. A patient representative presented key themes and shared their personal experiences during the event. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) interested in adrenal conditions completed pre- and post-SIMBA surveys to assess the model’s acceptability and clinical impact. Quantitative data were analysed using STATA 17.0, while open-ended responses underwent thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and insights.

Results: 64 participants completed pre- and post-SIMBA surveys. There was a significant increase in participants’ confidence post-event (pre- vs post-simulation score: 45.4% vs 89.7%; p<0.01). Thematic analysis of the impact of the session on participants’ clinical practice yielded two key themes: Referral and Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) approach. Multiple participants intended to make more referrals to patient support groups and to discuss cases with other MDT members. 96.5% of participants on Day 1 and 97.1% on Day 2 agreed that the simulated topics were relevant to their practice. 100% rated the session quality as excellent/good. Patient feedback highlighted the benefits of sharing lived experiences, which enhances healthcare professionals’ approach to personalised care and sensitive discussions.

Conclusion: Integrating PPI enhanced HCPs’ confidence in the management of adrenal conditions. Besides its influence on the participants’ clinical practice, this PPI-SBL model was well-received by both patients and HCPs. Future studies should assess long-term clinical impact and include objective measures of changes in clinical practice.