Continuing Medical Education (CME) is a way for licensed physicians to expand their skill sets. The medical field is constantly evolving, developing new techniques, and incorporating new technology into solutions which makes it important to stay on top of medical innovations and new treatment therapies.
Meeting CME requirements, however, isn’t just a useful way to boost a career; it’s important to meet these requirements to retain medical licenses.
There are specific parameters that continued medical education needs to meet. These requirements will vary by state. Most states, though, require CME hours to fall into Category 1.
Category 1 demands that a course or activity meet the standards of an organization that specializes in measuring CME participation.
These credits will be awarded if there is clear educational value in the course or activity and the physician passes the minimum performance requirement. Of the guiding organizations, the American Medical Association (AMA) is at the forefront.
An AMA credit must meet the standards of the Physician’s Recognition Award and must also have been certified to be an academically rigorous course or activity.
Many states require CRE credit to qualify as AMA PRA Category 1. However, there are other organizations that provide Category 1 creditas well. These include:
Make sure to follow the guidelines of your state.
The need for course hours to maintain your medical license and further your skills doesn’t mean you need spend a lot of money or time on the courses. There are many CME courses that are available for free, or at low costs.
You can also choose work CME requirements into your day by listening to audio programs, or reading online course materials. Choosing either of these options will help you tailor your education to your schedule, and avoid travel costs to attend courses or conferences.
The ACCME has provided a tool that will help you Find a CME provider near you.
It’s also possible to gain CME credit from more creative activities outside of an accredited source. Here are some additional ways to earn Category I credit.