Finalist
European SpA Imaging Working Group programme
with support from Sciterion
Summary of work
Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA) is a relatively ‘new’ disease with few global experts in the field. Within the rheumatology community there is a lack of understanding of the disease and how to diagnose it. MRI is a diagnostic tool used to support the diagnosis of nr-axSpA, but rheumatologists are not experienced at interpreting MRI and radiologists are not aware of this disease. There is a lack of training available due to the limited number of expert trainers available. The European Imaging Working Group programme provided an intensive year-long course to train 20 European rheumatologists and radiologists to become more experienced in MRI in nr-axSpA; with the aim of over 75% of participants achieving a level that allows them to deliver MRI training programmes in their country. Participants were required to attend four face-to-face interactive meetings and complete remote learning in-between the meetings. 80% of the participants achieved the criteria set out by the experts to run local meetings. The value has been irrefutably demonstrated by participants already using the toolkit and hosting 9 training meetings in 4 countries, with more planned, providing the opportunity for SpA MRI training in many regions for the first time.
Judges’ comments
This programme had a great blend of face-to-face, distance and self-learning training, plus participant generated content. It is a brilliant concept with strong physician engagement. It is an interesting and effective education programme across Europe and is already showing growth through its extension to South America.
