A web based learning programme can equip physiotherapists with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to manage rheumatoid arthritis patients, an Australian led study shows.

Compared to a control group physiotherapists who completed online learning modules (RAP-el) over a 4 week period reported a greater improvement in disease specific knowledge and clinical skills as well as higher confidence and satisfaction in their ability to manage people with RA.

However the study authors noted that after eight weeks these improvements declined, suggesting a need for reinforcing upskilling over time.

It was important to note that web-based learning cannot replace clinical skills education that requires ‘doing’ rather than just ‘thinking about doing’, the researchers said.

“This distinction is important and highlights the need for future research to identify whether combining web‐based learning with face‐to‐face clinical education or clinical skills demonstrated via webinars or other technologies, is more efficient and cost effective than traditional face‐to‐face educational models,” they wrote.