Evaluación participativa del programa de educación continua en detección temprana del cáncer de mama

Continuing education programs in early detection of cancer are a useful and necessary tool for the acquisition of knowledge, competencies, and skills required by health professionals. In Colombia, there are shortcomings in the training of professionals in these areas, resulting in a lack of standardization of techniques and procedures, and inadequate unification of criteria for diagnosis and therapeutic patient management. This study sought to evaluate the continuing education program in early detection of breast cancer implemented by the National Cancer Institute of Colombia between 2016 and 2018. A concurrent mixed methodology study was conducted, with descriptive analytical design, based on a documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews, analysis of satisfaction surveys, and pretest and posttest exams. A non-probability convenience sampling was performed; the selected population consisted of subjects involved in the program (trained professionals, trainers, creators) between 2016 and 2018. Among the results, the level of satisfaction with the course was found to be 97.5%, highlighting the methodology based on active learning, competency-based education, the relevance of the topics addressed, the use of anatomical silicone models, and the expertise of trainers. Statistically significant differences were found after the educational intervention (V=439; p=0.001). Economic, administrative, and dissemination barriers were evidenced. In addition, it was suggested to implement the course in a systematic way, increasing its coverage, dissemination, and training time, as well as to offer internships with patients. The study concludes that the implementation of continuing education programs among health professionals are a useful and necessary tool for the acquisition of basic skills in early cancer detection and must have a defined and organized structure in accordance with existing programs and public policies in the country.