CME Delivered to Doctors Means Better Care Delivered to Patients
Maui, Cancun, Aruba—opportunities for doctors to combine vacation while earning Continuing Medical Education (CME) abound! However, a survey by on24 and the MetaData Group of 971 physicians showed that 84% preferred earning credits online to attending conferences in person. Why is this?
While the notion of combining travel and CME may seem attractive, the reality is that it can take away from what’s important—caring for patients. As doctors are required to know more than ever before and treat patients in less time than ever before, their time has become more valuable.
Physicians, like other licensed occupations, are required to stay up-to-speed on the latest research and meet specified credit requirements through continuing education. But as everything from banking to shopping has headed online, so too has the world of higher education and continuing education. Online CME means doctors can take classes and earn credits using a computer, tablet or mobile device where and when it’s convenient for them.
Benefits of Learning Outside Their Box
Many physicians have expressed interest in continuing education beyond their field of medicine. Over the past decade, there have been an increasing number of studies showing when healthcare teams work together patient care is improved and more lives are saved. As the medical landscape changes to emphasize greater collaboration among physician care teams and a holistic approach to healthcare, doctors who can identify signs and symptoms of an illness will know when to refer to a specialist.
For example, doctors who specialize in internal medicine can understand diabetes from a multidisciplinary viewpoint. When is it time to refer to an endocrinologist? What are the outward symptoms of diabetic retinopathy, and how fast should a patient be seen by an ophthalmologist? What are the most common danger signs of diabetic neuropathy?
In the end, physicians can relax and enjoy their vacation away from patient responsibilities and time sitting in classrooms. Patients will benefit from well-rounded, well-rested doctors who can spot danger signs quickly and refer appropriately.
To learn about Oakstone's (a division of Ebix/ADAM’s) CME solutions visit us at www.cmeinfoinsider.com.
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