[ ARC forum 2 ]
Written by Paul B. at 23 May 2002 11:01:49: Competence
As an answer to: Re: Advice needed written by tmtanec at 22 May 2002 19:49:55:
> I don't know if Continuing and Professional Development is mandatory for GPs in the US.
I get the distinct impression that there is no Professional Development program in the US, certainly not a mandatory one. I'm sure someone will point out otherwise though (I know quite well about the programs on Medscape, but I haven't felt the need to try it out as such). (;-)
Most of these programs are linked to third-party payment, usually government - certainly the case in the UK and Australia.
> In the UK, it will become mandatory in 2007.
At least in terms of "bonus" payments and indeed since about 18 months ago, for registration in NSW, it is already mandatory in Australia.
However there is no requirement on what fields are studied, i.e., there is no curriculum. Thus any particular field, such as Andrology/ sexual health, can perfectly easily be avoided completely. And a disciplinary action requiring satisfactory completion of study in a particular area has never happened, at least to my knowledge.