Letter to the editor: Association between participation and compliance with Continuing Medical Education and care production by physicians: a cross-sectional study. einstein (São Paulo). 2015;13(1):1-6

Dear editor,

The manuscript “Association between participation and compliance with Continuing Medical Education and care production by physicians: a cross-sectional study” illustrates the ongoing challenge physicians face in keeping updated in order to offer their patients high-quality care. However, this need for Continuing Education is barred by the significant workload and dedication required by the profession.(¹)

A possible solution some teaching institutions have found for increasing participation and coverage of Continuing Medical Education is internet-based distance learning, so-called online courses. This type of teaching grants these classes a global reach, especially if they are presented in English, and can draw a broader audience of physicians from a variety of cities and countries.

An online course does not require physical structure, a problem many institutions face. Additionally, it offers greater flexibility in terms of time for physicians working different shifts at the same institution. Although an online course may cost more in the short term, in the long term the investment is reduced because the course can be reused. Professors from other hospitals and countries can also be invited to participate. Online courses give educators the chance to provide immediate feedback related to the number of participants, and some of the limitations involved in communicating with professors can be alleviated through the use of online forums.(²)

This practice can help hospitals remain a stimulating source for continuous education, and encourage physicians to fulfill the goals of their Continuing Medical Education programs.

REFERENCES

• ¹
  Carrera RM, Cendoroglo Neto M, Gonçales PD, Marques FR, Sardenberg C, Glezer M, et al. Association between participation and compliance with Continuing Medical Education and care production by physicians: a crosssectional study. einstein (São Paulo). 2015;13(1):1-6.
• ²
  Anderson T. Toward a theory of on line learning. In: Anderson T, Elloumi F, editor. Theory and practice of online learning. Athabasca, AB, Canada: Athabasca University; 2004. p. 33-46.

Publication Dates

• Publication in this collection
  Apr-Jun 2015