How to Navigate Accreditation Systems in Europe: EACCME and Beyond

Session Description: With a multitude of over 200 accreditation systems scattered across Europe, the landscape of Continuing Education (CE) in the region appears disjointed. Currently lacking a unified approach, the delivery of CE activities presents a fragmented picture, making it challenging for stakeholders to grasp the overarching framework and navigate effectively. Unlike the centralized oversight provided by the ACCME in the USA, Europe lacks a comparable body to standardize CE accreditation, further complicating the understanding and implementation of accredited activities.

Despite these challenges, there are promising signs of progress within the CE field in Europe. Initiatives such as the European Board for Accreditation of Continuing Education for Health Professionals (EBAC) and Germany's national CE system are beginning to carve out distinctions by aligning with international standards for commercial support and seeking equivalency with established entities like the ACCME.

In this presentation, members of the gCMEp group will delve into these developments, shedding light on the evolving landscape of CE in Europe. Topics of discussion will include advancements such as EACCME 3.0, alongside insights into various accreditation systems prevalent in Europe ((EBAC, EBAH, RCP, etc) and strategies to identify the most suitable channels for specific target audiences. Participants can expect to gain valuable insights into the CE process in Europe and learn effective strategies for navigating this multifaceted terrain.

The aim of the gCMEp is to guide how European CE providers contribute to improving health outcomes through effective education. gCMEp does this by:

Championing best practice

Mentoring and educating the provider community

Maintaining and improving standards

Working in collaboration with critical stakeholders