This study examined the current state of education, clinical skills, and learning preferences related to autonomic nervous system (ANS) disorders among European neurology residents and consultants. Training opportunities in autonomic medicine are limited, and the COVID-19 pandemic further reduced access to hands-on experience. To assess the situation, researchers distributed a 23-item online questionnaire through the European Academy of Neurology mailing lists. The survey covered demographics, training opportunities, and self-assessed knowledge in ANS disorders.
A total of 285 participants responded, most of them women aged 25–34 years. Nearly all respondents agreed that clinical autonomic skills are essential for good neurological practice, and 92% expressed a desire to improve their knowledge. Female respondents and those trained in Southern, Eastern, or Greater Europe placed higher importance on ANS skills than males and those from Northern or Western Europe. Younger and female participants reported lower confidence in managing ANS disorders. Those under 45 and with less confidence were more likely to support integrating ANS education into residency training.
Overall, the results highlight a widespread need for improved education in autonomic medicine across Europe, emphasizing the importance of expanding ANS-related teaching within medical and postgraduate programs.
Author(s):
Diogo Fernando Reis Carneiro, Alessandra Fanciulli
References including authors:
Reis-Carneiro D, Skoric MK, Habek M, Adamec I, Calandra-Buonaura G, Cortelli P, van Dijk JG, Falup-Pecurariu C, Guaraldi P, Hilz MJ, Iodice V, Jordan J, Rocha I, Struhal W, Terkelsen AJ, Thijs R, Tijero B, Berger T, Rektorova I, Moro E, Pavy-Le Traon A, Wenning G, Panicker JN, Fanciulli A. Autonomic nervous system education in Europe: EAN/EFAS/INUS survey on curricula and skills in autonomic medicine of European neurology residents and consultants. Eur J Neurol. 2024 Dec;31(12):e16515. doi:10.1111/ene.16515.