Outcomes of AIDS Education and Training Center HIV/AIDS skill-building workshops on provider practices

Abstract

The Midwest AIDS Training and Education Center (MATEC) implemented a Web-based survey method to measure impact on practitioners of HIV/AIDS skill-building workshops offered in seven midwestern states. Surveys were sent to 2,949 participants from 230 workshops 4-6 weeks after each workshop. Of those surveyed, 631 respondents provided usable data (22.4%). Self-reported narrative responses described practice changes attributed to training. Changes were categorized as (a) practitioner attitude/knowledge, (b) practitioner practice behavior, (c) planning system change, and (d) implemented adaptations to the clinical care system. Other outcome measures were attending more programs and consulting with colleagues. Change was reported by 341 (54.0%) individuals, with a total of 411 change events/activities documented. Of the change events, 302 (73%) related to changes in health provider practices and 109 (27%) related to the care systems. Findings from this evaluation project provide evidence that MATEC workshops do impact practitioners' behaviors and care systems consistent with the literature about translating research into practice.