Abstract Details

Title Online CME-Certified Expert Panel Discussion Improved Knowledge of Clinically-Relevant Information Regarding Cannabinoids Among Neurologists

Topic Education, Research, and Methodology

Presentation(s) P12 - Poster Session 12 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 7-001

Background Cannabinoids have been used for various medical purposes for centuries, but only recently has a plant-based cannabinoid has been approved by the FDA as a medical product. In addition, many states have begun to legalize artisanal cannabinoid products for various purposes. Many neurologists lack awareness of basic concepts relating to the use of cannabinoid products for medical purposes, including differences between artisanal cannabinoid products and those produced for a FDA-approved medication.

Objective

An online activity was developed to assess the ability of continuing medical education (CME) to improve awareness of clinically relevant information relating to the use of cannabinoids among neurologists.

Design/Methods The online CME activity consisted of a 30-minute video discussion between three epilepsy experts. Educational effect was assessed by comparing a matched sample of neurologists’ responses to four identical questions pre- and post-activity. A paired-samples t-test identified significant differences between pre- and post-assessment responses. Cohen’s d was used to calculate the effect size of the online education. Data were collected between April 14, 2021 and June 25, 2021.

Results Activity participation resulted in a moderate educational effect among neurologists (n=138; d=0.62, P<0.001). Areas showing significant (P <.05) pre- vs post-educational improvements included: the allowable amount of tetrahydrocannabinol in hemp-sourced products from the 2018 Farm Bill and the adverse event most commonly associated with cannabidiol (CBD). There was a non-significant improvement in the knowledge of outcomes from a study examining the labeling accuracy of dispensary-sourced CBD. Participation in the program resulted in 49% of neurologists reporting increased confidence in their ability to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of artisanal cannabinoids for medical purposes with their patients.

Conclusions The results indicated that a CME-certified 30-minute video activity was effective at improving knowledge among neurologists’ of clinically relevant information relating to cannabinoids. Future education should continue to provide clinically-relevant information to neurologists on cannabinoids.

Authors/Disclosures
Thomas Finnegan, Jr., PhD (Medscape Education) PRESENTER	Dr. Finnegan has nothing to disclose.
	No disclosure on file
	No disclosure on file
Barry E. Gidal, PhD	Dr. Gidal has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving as a Consultant for Eisai . Dr. Gidal has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving as a Consultant for Greenwich. Dr. Gidal has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving as a Consultant for SK life sciences . Dr. Gidal has received personal compensation in the range of $500-$4,999 for serving on a Scientific Advisory or Data Safety Monitoring board for Eisai. Dr. Gidal has received personal compensation in the range of $5,000-$9,999 for serving on a Speakers Bureau for SK life science .