Ab1634-HPR Competencies and Challenges in Rheumatologists’ Training: An Analysis of Adherence to Eular Guidelines

Background: In 2023, the EULAR group published a series of points to consider in the training of rheumatologists. This study aims to expand its scope to understand the educational landscape in rheumatology in Argentina. Methods: The study population consisted of rheumatologists selected through a sampling approach. For data collection, a structured questionnaire was designed using the Google Forms platform. The questionnaire construction adhered rigorously to the guidelines provided by the "EULAR Points to Consider: EULAR–UEMS standards for the training of European rheumatologists" guide. The questions aimed to assess participants' confidence in each competency upon completing their training. Results: A total of 46 participants were included. The median age was 40 years, ranging from 31 to 79 years, with training spanning from 1976 to 2023. Regarding education, 71.7% received their training in public institutions. The majority of respondents (82.6%) were trained in the City of Buenos Aires, followed by the Province of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, Mendoza and Córdoba. Overall, surveyed rheumatologists expressed a high level of confidence in their clinical skills and competencies upon completing their training. However, when specifically asked about metabolic bone diseases, 26% responded neutrally, and 7% did not feel competent. A similar pattern was observed in managing diseases based on age groups, with 26% being neutral, and 9% and 4% in disagreement and total disagreement with feeling competent. 10.9% were neutral, and 6.5% disagreed regarding their ability to manage diseases in the context of multimorbidity. 13% disagreed, and 26% were neutral about their ability to manage rheumatological pathologies during pregnancy and lactation. Regarding generalized pain syndromes, 80% felt competent, while 4% disagreed, and 15% were neutral. In aspects related to ethics and communication, most participants felt capable of establishing professional relationships based on mutual trust and respect (45.7%), as well as effectively communicating with patients and other healthcare professionals (39.1%). Conclusion: The results reflect a group of rheumatologists who perceive themselves as competent in a wide range of clinical and ethical skills upon completing their training. However, it is important to note that, despite the high perception of competence, self-assessment may vary, and ongoing education may be beneficial to maintain and enhance these skills throughout their professional careers. REFERENCES: 1 Alunno, Alessia, et al. "Points to consider: EULAR–UEMS standards for the training of European rheumatologists." Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2023). Acknowledgements: NIL. Disclosure of Interests: None declared.