Evaluation of a Dementia Education Program for Family Medicine Residents

BACKGROUND: Dementia diagnosis and management is increasing in importance in the training of future family physicians. This study evaluated the impact of a dementia education program for family medicine residents (FMR) on residents' knowledge, attitudes, and confidence with respect to dementia assessment and management. A three-part questionnaire was developed and validated for these purposes. METHODS: A mixed methods study design was employed. The questionnaire's internal consistency and test-retest reliability was determined and content validity was assessed. Twelve FMR participated in questionnaire validation. Program participants completed the validated questionnaire at baseline, at interim, and following program completion. Twenty-seven FMR completed the questionnaire as part of the program evaluation. Willing residents also participated in program feedback interviews. Differences in questionnaire scores between program participants and the comparison group were examined. RESULTS: Each questionnaire component demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's α: 0.83-0.91) and test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficients: 0.74-0.91). Program participants (n = 15) scored significantly higher than the comparison group (n = 12) on the knowledge component and also reported greater confidence in several areas. Qualitative data indicated that residents felt the program focused on important topic areas and appreciated the opportunity to work in an interprofessional team. CONCLUSION: Evaluation results indicate that the program improved FMRs' knowledge on dementia assessment and management, as well as increased the residents' confidence levels.