Present status and constitutional remedies of continuing medical education in Korea

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the historical background and status of continuing medical education (CME) in Korea, and to establish a method for improving CME in the future. Currently, the CME in Korea presents several problems that need to be addressed, such as the appropriateness of the annual required credits, maintenance of simple refresher training, insufficient online education, and evaluation and accreditation of educational institutions. Solutions are offered in the form of increased time for the required credits, introduction of social competency topics and education methods, improvement of online education, evaluation to improve the quality of CME, and introduction of a systematic and appropriate evaluation and accreditation system. CME and continuing professional development (CPD) are not only obligations stipulated in the medical law, but also professional requisites in terms of securing autonomy through self-development and self-regulation. It aims to enlighten the high level of professionalism required by the international community. It is an essential requirement and ultimately promotes and protects the physical, mental, and social health of people worldwide. In order to cope with the international standards of CME/CPD that ensure high quality treatment and patient safety, it is crucial to reform the continuing medical education system by securing the physicians’ professionalism. To this end, authors propose the improvement and implementation of CME system in Korea based on internal review and benchmarks of the internationally recognized CME/CPD systems that meet global standards.