Delivering Effective Continuous Medical Education in Saudi Arabia: Some Critical Issues

Abstract

Purpose: Continuous Medical Education (CME) is growing fast in Saudi Arabia as part of health practitioner׳s commitment to professionalism. It furnishes the means to maintain the practitioner׳s ability to provide quality and safe patient care. However, major issues regarding the process of conducting CME in the country have not been investigated before. The purpose of this study is to describe the CME practice in Saudi Arabia. Method: The method utilized in this qualitative study was focus groups. Leaders of CME departments in various hospitals in Riyadh area participated in the study. Hospitals were categorized to different levels according to their governing systems. Results: In total 17 representatives of various CME bodies responded to 16 questions related to four main themes. Their responses varied according to several factors. The results provided new and insightful understanding of CME practice in Saudi Arabia. Conclusion: The CME practice in Saudi is facing several challenges at both financial and administrative levels. Suggestions for facing such challenges were provided. Moreover, further studies in this area are needed.