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Background <p>There is a&#xa0;substantial time lag between the generation of medical evidence and its clinical implementation. Free Open Access Medical Education (FOAM) provides a&#xa0;low-threshold, digital means of knowledge dissemination. To date, empirical data on the use of FOAM and its potential impact on professional competence within the German emergency medical services (EMS) are limited.</p> Objective <p>This study examined the prevalence and usage patterns of FOAM, its association with professional competence, and users’ evaluation of FOAM compared to formal educational programs.</p> Study design and methods <p>A&#xa0;quantitative online survey was conducted (June–September 2025). The convenience sample included staff from all qualification levels in the German EMS. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.</p> Results <p>Of 917 analyzable responses, 75% of the participants reported using FOAM content. Higher-qualified professional groups showed significantly higher usage rates (<i>p</i> &lt; 0.001). A&#xa0;significant positive correlation was found between frequency of use and professional competence. Furthermore, 86% rated FOAM content positively compared to formal educational offerings, especially with respect to topicality and practical relevance.</p> Conclusion <p>FOAM is widely used within the German EMS and shows a&#xa0;significant association with self-perceived professional competence. The findings suggest that informal digital learning formats should be more strongly integrated into vocational and continuing education structures.</p>

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Free Open Access Medical Education (FOAM) zur Förderung beruflicher Handlungskompetenz im deutschen Rettungsdienst

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月27日

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  • Markus Grasser,
  • Christian G. Erker

摘要

Background

There is a substantial time lag between the generation of medical evidence and its clinical implementation. Free Open Access Medical Education (FOAM) provides a low-threshold, digital means of knowledge dissemination. To date, empirical data on the use of FOAM and its potential impact on professional competence within the German emergency medical services (EMS) are limited.

Objective

This study examined the prevalence and usage patterns of FOAM, its association with professional competence, and users’ evaluation of FOAM compared to formal educational programs.

Study design and methods

A quantitative online survey was conducted (June–September 2025). The convenience sample included staff from all qualification levels in the German EMS. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods.

Results

Of 917 analyzable responses, 75% of the participants reported using FOAM content. Higher-qualified professional groups showed significantly higher usage rates (p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was found between frequency of use and professional competence. Furthermore, 86% rated FOAM content positively compared to formal educational offerings, especially with respect to topicality and practical relevance.

Conclusion

FOAM is widely used within the German EMS and shows a significant association with self-perceived professional competence. The findings suggest that informal digital learning formats should be more strongly integrated into vocational and continuing education structures.