Outcomes of the American Board of Dermatology focused Practice Improvement program 2016-2023.

Abstract

Board-certified dermatologists experience diverse practice gaps. Identify the top self-selected focused Practice Improvement (fPI) modules completed over time by board-certified dermatologists during the program's first 8 years. Cohort study of dermatologists certified by the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) completing fPI modules from 2016 to 2023. This descriptive analysis reports modules completed by topic, subspecialty, relevance, and self-reported changes to subsequent patient care related to modules. About 19,143 fPI modules were completed by 7378 unique ABD diplomates, representing 48.8% of all current ABD-certified dermatologists (n = 15,118). Modules were rated relevant by 18,917 participants (99%). Care gaps requiring improvement efforts and performance remeasurement occurred in 2919 (15.2%) completed modules. Acne and medication-related laboratory monitoring were popular topics requiring improvement. Diplomates reported care improvements resulting from completing modules in 8397 instances (43.9%), and improved patient outcomes in at least one patient 5310 times (27.7%). Finally, diplomates stated they would recommend fPI modules to peers 18,633 (97.3%) times. Dermatologists who started but did not complete modules would not have rated the module. Attribution bias on care impact is possible and potentially overestimated. The ABD fPI program is helping board-certified dermatologists identify and improve gaps in care with reported patient outcome improvements.