International Impact of Internet-Based Phacoemulsification Didactic
Narrative Responses:
Purpose
To report the international impact of an internet-based phacoemulsification course based on website analytics and anonymous survey over a four year period.
Methods
Retrospective review of website visit history and anonymous electronic survey results upon completion of an internet-based phacoemulsification didactic from 2009 to 2013. Website analytics included page views, country of origin, and unique visitors as well as returning visitors. 24 anonymous and unique visitors voluntarily answered up to nine questions including but not limited to questions regarding educational value, frequency of visit, and level of training after completing the nine-step course on phacoemulsification.
Results
51,667 total page views were recorded over four years. 29,501 visitors from 162 countries visited the phacoemulsification course, with unique visits representing 57% of total visits. 61% of visitors were from the United States, followed by 8% from India and 3% from the United Kingdom. Anonymous survey results found the phacoemulsification step was most helpful, educational, and well done. Of 21 survey participants, 11 were fellow-level trainees, followed by six third-year residents. When asked how often they expected to return, 43% of 21 survey participants answered occasionally, while 24% answered weekly.
Conclusion
An internet-based phacoemulsification didactic can assist a significant worldwide audience. Not only can such a didactic be used as a method of introduction, but also can be useful to fellow level trainees. A significant conversion of unique visitors to repeat users occurred, suggesting course utility and educational value.