Rhode Island Medical Journal (07/01/26) Vol. 109, No. 7, P. 32 Szkwarko, Daria; Kim, Steven; Goldman, Roberta; et al.

Researchers in Rhode Island developed a telementoring program to address challenges in primary care clinicians' management of tuberculosis (TB) infection. With support from Advance Rhode Island Clinical and Translational Research, the researchers conducted 24 interviews with primary care clinicians and nurses and found that although participants were comfortable with TB infection screening, they were less confident in treatment selection and initiation. This information helped to inform a six-session Extension of Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) course that launched in 2021. Using pre- and post-course surveys and follow-up interviews, the researchers noted significant improvements in participants' self-reported confidence across most TB infection practice areas, with 75% reporting specific changes to their clinical practice. These changes included adopting shorter treatment regimens and improving interpretation of newer diagnostic tests. The program demonstrated measurable practice change consistent with Level 5 (Performance) on Moore's Educational Framework, the researchers note, and also established the first Project ECHO hub at Brown University's Warren Alpert Medical School. The model has since expanded into a regional TB infection ECHO program.

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