Video conferencing platforms have become a cornerstone of education since the COVID-19 pandemic. This research measured the educational value of a monthly case-based Neurology conference held through Zoom. Real patient cases are presented in a step-wise fashion by a group facilitator. Attendees actively engage by asking questions and offering diagnoses through a text-based Q&A function. The clinical reasoning process is emphasized over getting the correct diagnosis.

A post-conference online survey gathered data on attendee’s location, training level, source of discovery, attendance frequency, and level of participation. Participants rated statements measuring perceived educational value and satisfaction.

Sixty-eight respondents showed representation of 20 countries across five continents. Thirty-eight responses to the remaining questions showed a majority of attendees were attendings(42%), followed by residents(26%), fellows(13%), medical students(11%), and other(8%). Most learned about the conference through Twitter(79%). 18% of participants attended 1-5 sessions, 45% attended 5-10 sessions, 18% attended 10-15 sessions, and 18% attended over 15 sessions. 60% of attendees actively participated through questions, comments, or as panelists, while 37% had passively listened either alone or in a group. 89% agreed that the sessions enhanced their diagnostic skills, found the virtual format conducive to learning, and expressed satisfaction. 87% showed interest in future sessions, and 75% indicated a greater likelihood of active participation in virtual conferences compared to in-person settings.

Virtual conferences can connect a diverse array of medical professionals, each offering their own distinct training and patient experiences. This allows for an enriched discussion and potentially enhances learning value. The high rate of repeat participants, perceived improvement in diagnostic skills, and intent to participate in future sessions affirm their positive educational value. Virtual case-based sessions may even increase active engagement from the audience when compared to their in-person counterparts.