New accredited e-learning course helps GPs diagnose and manage osteoarthritis
How can GPs recognise (early) osteoarthritis and help patients find the right treatment? The Department of General Practice at Erasmus MC has developed a free e-learning course in collaboration with GPs and other partners. The course offers healthcare professionals practical guidance for everyday clinical practice and is now accredited: GPs can earn one accreditation point upon successful completion.
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Practical guidance for everyday clinical practice
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common conditions seen in general practice. Early recognition, clear patient information and appropriate support are essential to providing the best possible care for people with osteoarthritis.
The new e-learning course on (early) hip and knee osteoarthritis translates the latest scientific evidence and guidelines into practical advice for GPs. Its four interactive modules cover topics including the development of osteoarthritis, diagnosis, patient education, physical activity, exercise therapy and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. The course also includes a factsheet . Participants gain practical knowledge and tools they can apply directly in their consultations.
GPs who have already completed the course appreciate its practical approach. As one participant put it: “I particularly liked how practical it was, with examples that can be used directly in consultations.”
The course takes approximately one hour to complete and is available free of charge. GPs who successfully complete the final assessment receive one accreditation point. The course is also accessible to other healthcare professionals, with further adaptations specifically for physiotherapists currently in development.
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Bringing research and clinical practice together
The e-learning course was developed by a team including Dieuwke Schiphof, Anja Roelofsen, Marienke van Middelkoop, Sita Bierma-Zeinstra and Rob Strijkers from Erasmus MC, with contributions from GPs and others who shared their expertise and provided feedback.
The course was also developed in collaboration with Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences, Anita Feleus, the Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy (KNGF), Arno Tijssen, Het Beweegkader, ReumaNederland and GBE Creative Agency, including Fritiof Eriksson and Ghuislaine Janzen.
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