1827 - Comparing In-Person and Video-Based Educational Interventions to Improve Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Objectives: Physicians in training are often the first point of contact in healthcare and play a key role in care coordination. Despite this, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) is under-recognized in clinical practice. Limited awareness of PM&R’s scope can delay referrals, fragment care, and reduce opportunities to improve function and independence. Early involvement of PM&R improves outcomes, shortens hospital stays, and strengthens interdisciplinary care. This study will compare two educational approaches: live, in-person presentations and an asynchronous video series aimed at improving residents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in PM&R. We hypothesize that in-person sessions will be more effective because of the benefits of real-time discussion and interaction.

Design: Residents will take part in either an in-person session or a video series covering PM&R services, including acute consultative care, musculoskeletal and neurologic management, and interdisciplinary coordination. All participants will complete a pre-survey to assess baseline KAP and a post-survey to measure changes in knowledge, confidence, and referral practices. The in-person session will include discussion and Q&A with PM&R residents and an attending physician, while the video group will access material asynchronously. Group assignment will depend on resident availability and preference.

Results: We anticipate that baseline knowledge will be limited in both groups, particularly around acute care consultation and musculoskeletal management. Both formats are expected to improve KAP, but residents attending in-person sessions are expected to show greater confidence in identifying appropriate referrals, a stronger understanding of PM&R’s impact on outcomes and hospital efficiency, and higher engagement with the material.

Conclusions: This study will evaluate whether targeted educational interventions, in-person or video-based, can improve residents’ KAP regarding PM&R. We expect that in-person education will be superior in fostering interactive learning, confidence, and readiness for timely referrals. Integrating PM&R education early in residency may strengthen collaboration, optimize outcomes, and promote a holistic, function-centered approach to care.