Enhancing medical education in oral and maxillofacial surgery: outcomes from a structured online teaching programme

Abstract

Oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMFS) is a specialty that is under-represented in medical school teaching, leading to poor awareness and low confidence among doctors when managing and diagnosing OMFS conditions. This study aims to evaluate an online teaching programme designed to improve knowledge and the confidence of doctors to assess and manage common OMFS presentations. A three-part webinar series was developed and delivered online through the free open access medical education platform Mind the Bleep. The topics covered were facial trauma, orofacial infection, and other important OMFS presentations. The sessions were available to all doctors around the world and were presented live and made available on demand. Participants completed surveys before and after the course where quantitative and qualitative data were gathered. Statistical analysis was then performed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and qualitative data were analysed. A total of 229 doctors attended both live and on demand. Of the 84 participants who provided feedback there was significant improvement in confidence across all topics (p < 0.05). Positive feedback was received on the content, format, and helpfulness of the topics. Constructive comments were received through qualitative feedback. This targeted OMFS teaching programme effectively improved the confidence to manage common OMFS conditions. It provided an accessible, flexible, and cost-effective solution to addressing gaps in OMFS education for doctors and could be adapted for other medical specialties.