Generating meaningful peer-to-peer engagement through a mentor-led, small group social learning experience on the evolving standards of care for advanced HER2+ breast cancer.

person Latha Shivakumar Association of Community Cancer Centers, Rockville, MD info_outline Latha Shivakumar, Rukiya Wongus, Steven Haimowitz, Lisa Shah, Amanda Ye, Leigh Boehmer

Authors person Latha Shivakumar Association of Community Cancer Centers, Rockville, MD info_outline Latha Shivakumar, Rukiya Wongus, Steven Haimowitz, Lisa Shah, Amanda Ye, Leigh Boehmer Organizations Association of Community Cancer Centers, Rockville, MD, RealCME, New York, NY, HealthCourse, New York, NY Abstract Disclosures Research Funding Pharmaceutical/Biotech Company Background: Although the COVID-19 pandemic quickly created a spotlight on distance learning, identifying models that can deliver effective educational programs and best serve the needs of oncology clinicians remains a significant challenge. Methods: We conducted an educational program on the evolving standards of care for advanced HER2+ breast cancer hosted on a novel digital platform that offers a personalized social learning experience which prioritizes engagement, peer-to-peer learning, and mentorship within a small group setting. Results: 87 learners within 10 groups of professionally-connected clinicians participated. Learners progressed through foundational self-study modules, collaborated on asynchronous group challenges, and participated in synchronous live group discussions over six weeks (approximately 4 hours total). Quantitative and qualitative analysis of data extracted from these components highlights the impact of this program (Table). Notably, the learner population was more specialized and engaged than could be expected of a traditional CME program. Feedback suggests strong impact of the live group discussions on learners’ intended practice changes. Additionally, analysis of group challenges and live group discussions revealed several key insights into learner thinking about treatment guidelines, including their differing opinions about the role of surgery/radiation in patient care, uncertainty about the mechanisms of action (MOAs) of discussed therapies, and their apprehension about implementing therapies that may impact the heart and lungs. Conclusions: The outcomes from this analysis highlight the utility of this type of social learning platform to create a safe, supportive learning environment that encourages multiple real-time and asynchronous interactions and shared experiences between clinicians who treat patients with advanced HER2+ breast cancer, as well as offering unique and convenient mentoring opportunities for clinicians interested in leading these digital small groups. Program impact. Quantitative Highlights · 92% of participants specialized in oncology or hematology/oncology · Average of 5 platform interactions per learner · 70% of learners completed all 5 self-study modules · 94% reported that they intended to make changes to their practice based on, or that their current practice had been reinforced by, the experience Qualitative Highlights · Differing opinions regarding the role of surgery and/or radiation in patient care · Uncertainty about MOAs of available therapies · Apprehension about certain therapies that may impact the heart and lungs