Updating scientific articles via the Deckermed Platform: a comprehensive approach to learning and revision for ECSACOP trainees

Abstract

Background: The East Central and Southern Africa College of Physicians (ECSACOP) offers a comprehensive internal medicine residency program that encompasses didactic lectures, hands on clinical mentorship as well as a weekly curriculum readership on the DeckerMed Africa platform. Exposure to scientific advances as well as research methodology remains limited during the training program, which is primarily hosted in resource-limited countries. This is further compounded by limited locally generated clinical evidence, with most literature predominantly citing western data.
Objectives: To improve  Between February 2023 and January 2024, Dr. Wezzie Y. Kamanga, a third-year ECSACOP resident, updated DeckerMed review articles on HIV prevention, macrovascular and microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus, and obstructive sleep apnea.
Methods: The review process involved initially reading the article for a general overview, followed by a detailed reading to summarize and update the text and references. A critical appraisal of meta-analyses, systematic reviews, clinical trials, and relevant guidelines was done with the aid of Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) checklists. References were color-coded, and practice questions for junior and senior trainees were formulated. The updated articles were then submitted to the original authors or senior ECSACOP faculty for feedback, which was incorporated before publishing the final review.
Results: Lessons learnt
- The resident gained a deeper understanding and greater exposure to recent literature on the updated topics.
- DeckerMed provided a platform for collaboration between residents and established authors, resulting in high-quality publications.
- DeckerMed offered appropriate monetary compensation, which is particularly beneficial during residency.
Conclusion: The DeckerMed authorship program is a valuable and scalable initiative for third-year internal medicine residents to enhance their literature review and academic writing skills.