UC Berkeley

Study design

Mixed methods study including quantitative data analysis and qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews.

Objectives

Utilizing information and communication technology can facilitate professional communication within health care on a global scale. This study aimed to identify the educational and peer-to-peer communication needs of craniomaxillofacial (CMF) surgeons across the globe, determine preferred modes of communication, and assess technological and other barriers to online education and peer-to-peer communication.

Methods

We performed semi-structured videoconference interviews of 92 CMF surgeons from around the globe, with the largest number in the Asia/Pacific region, the Middle East, and Latin America. We triangulated quantitative summaries with qualitative themes to improve validity and enable a more comprehensive understanding of participant perspectives.

Results

The interviews revealed 3 main areas of technology use: new surgical technology, technology that enables information exchange, and communication technology. When asked about technology and communication platforms used in the course of their work, 33 participants (36%) mentioned PubMed or other journal-related sites; 25% recalled using YouTube as a resource; 23% described conducting internet searches using Google or other search engines; 21% used WhatsApp groups; and 11% used closed Facebook groups.

Conclusion

CMF surgeons embraced communication technologies that allowed them to quickly obtain knowledge especially on new surgical technology, discuss cases on demand, and maintain strong communication with their global peers.