Abstract 315P
Background
While targeted therapies (TT) are guideline-recommended for the treatment of patients with cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and actionable alterations, clinicians face significant challenges when integrating these novel treatments into routine care. The objective of the current study was to identify knowledge and competence gaps among European oncologists related to molecular testing and TT in order to inform the design of future educational initiatives aimed at improving patient care and outcomes through optimisation of CCA management.
Methods
Data were collected through baseline assessments conducted across six online continuing medical education activities launched from December 2022 to December 2023. A total of 301 European oncologists participated in the assessments, generating 1,583 pooled responses across 31 questions.
Results
Substantial gaps were identified across all assessed knowledge and competence domains (Table). Particularly high rates of incorrect responses were observed in: knowledge of the appropriate timing of, and strategies for, biopsies to facilitate molecular testing (70%), knowledge of the adverse effect profiles of TT (73%), competence in detecting acquired resistance mutations to TT (74%), and competence applying a multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach to molecular testing (72%). Chi-square tests indicated significantly larger gaps among community versus academic oncologists in knowledge related to the use of TT (P < .05) and in knowledge and competence related to the MDT approach (P < .05). Table: 315P
Incorrect response rates by oncologists’ practice settings
| Measure group | Incorrect response rates (Total number of pooled responses) | ||
| Academic | Community | Total | |
| Knowledge related to the use of molecular testing in the management of patients with CCA (10 questions) | 62% (295) | 61% (207) | 62% (502) |
| Knowledge related to the use of TT in the management of patients with CCA (9 questions) | 48% (262) | 58% (166) | 52% (428) |
| Competence in designing contemporary management plans for CCA (9 questions) | 48% (289) | 48% (180) | 48% (469) |
| Knowledge and competence related to the use of an MDT approach to facilitate molecular testing and TT of CCA (3 questions) | 50% (113) | 66% (71) | 57% (184) |
Conclusions
This study highlights knowledge and competence gaps that may contribute to a lack of comprehensive molecular testing and appropriate use of TT in patients with CCA. Tailored educational initiatives focused on addressing the identified gaps may better equip clinicians to optimise care and outcomes in patients with CCA.
Legal entity responsible for the study
PeerVoice.
Funding
The continuing medical education activities referenced and the baseline assessment data analysed in the current study were supported by independent educational grants from Taiho Oncology Europe GmbH, Servier Pharmaceuticals LLC, and Incyte Biosciences International Sàrl. The study itself was conducted independently of these funding sources.
Disclosure
All authors have declared no conflicts of interest.